Preakness Stakes 2025: An Unpredictable Race Takes Shape

The 2025 Preakness Stakes, the second and arguably most challenging leg of horse racing’s prestigious Triple Crown, is looming large on the horizon. With barely more than a week remaining until the big day, the field remains in a state of constant flux, adding an element of intrigue and unpredictability that has captured the attention of racing enthusiasts worldwide. This year’s Preakness is shaping up to be a race where any contender could legitimately stake their claim to victory.

Adding to the drama, key developments in recent days have significantly altered the landscape of the race. Most notably, Rodriguez, a highly anticipated colt trained by the legendary Bob Baffert, has been ruled out of contention due to a persistent foot issue. According to reports from DRF.com, Baffert has confirmed that Rodriguez is suffering from a sensitive foot bruise, a condition that also led to his unfortunate scratch from the Kentucky Derby.

Baffert, a name synonymous with Triple Crown success, will now pin his hopes on Goal Oriented, another promising member of his stable. Goal Oriented will carry the weight of Baffert’s expectations as he attempts to navigate the challenging Pimlico Race Course and secure a coveted Preakness victory.

However, the absence of Rodriguez is not the only major shake-up to the Preakness field. Earlier this week, a bombshell announcement reverberated throughout the racing world: Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty, trained by the esteemed Bill Mott, will not be participating in the Preakness Stakes. This news effectively dashes any hopes of a Triple Crown winner emerging for the seventh consecutive year, a drought that has left fans yearning for a horse capable of achieving this rare and remarkable feat.

Mott has indicated that Sovereignty is being rested and prepared for a potential comeback in the Belmont Stakes, scheduled for June 7th at Saratoga Race Course in upstate New York. The decision to bypass the Preakness underscores the demanding nature of the Triple Crown campaign and the importance of prioritizing the long-term health and well-being of these equine athletes.

The absence of both Rodriguez and Sovereignty leaves a significant void in the Preakness field, creating an opportunity for other contenders to step into the spotlight. Currently, only one horse from the Kentucky Derby remains in the mix: American Promise, trained by Hall of Fame conditioner D. Wayne Lukas.

American Promise, a colt with a rich pedigree and a history of strong performances, faced a challenging race in the Kentucky Derby, finishing 16th out of 19 starters. However, Lukas, a master of his craft, will undoubtedly be looking to refine American Promise’s strategy and capitalize on the favorable conditions that the Preakness may present.

The Preakness Stakes, often referred to as "The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans," is renowned for its unique challenges and unpredictable nature. The shorter distance compared to the Kentucky Derby often favors horses with tactical speed and the ability to navigate the turns efficiently. The Pimlico Race Course, with its tight turns and demanding stretch, demands both stamina and agility.

The absence of the Kentucky Derby winner often leads to a more competitive and wide-open race, with several contenders vying for the top spot. Horses that may have been overlooked in the Kentucky Derby often seize the opportunity to showcase their talents and emerge as legitimate contenders in the Preakness.

The decision by Sovereignty’s connections to bypass the Preakness has reignited the debate surrounding the Triple Crown schedule and its impact on the horses. The demanding nature of racing three grueling races within a short five-week period has raised concerns about the long-term health and well-being of these equine athletes.

Some critics argue that the current Triple Crown schedule is outdated and needs to be revised to allow for more rest and recovery time between races. They suggest that lengthening the interval between the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes would not only benefit the horses but also potentially lead to a greater number of Triple Crown attempts.

The debate surrounding the Triple Crown schedule highlights the complex interplay between tradition, commerce, and equine welfare. While the Triple Crown remains one of the most cherished and iconic events in horse racing, it is crucial to ensure that the well-being of the horses remains the top priority.

The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes is set to take place on Saturday, May 17th, at the historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Post time is scheduled for 6:50 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans across the globe can tune in to witness this thrilling event, with live coverage available on Peacock, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app.

In addition to traditional broadcast platforms, the 2025 Preakness Stakes will also be streamed live on Fubo, providing fans with even more options to experience the excitement of this prestigious race.

As the countdown to the Preakness Stakes continues, the anticipation is building. The absence of key contenders has created an atmosphere of uncertainty, making this year’s race one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With a field of talented horses vying for victory, the 150th Preakness Stakes promises to be a thrilling spectacle that will captivate racing fans around the world.

The Preakness Stakes is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of tradition, athleticism, and the enduring bond between humans and horses. It’s a moment where dreams are realized, legends are made, and the spirit of competition shines brightly. As the horses thunder down the stretch at Pimlico Race Course, the world will be watching, eager to witness the next chapter in the storied history of the Preakness Stakes. The stage is set, the contenders are ready, and the anticipation is palpable. Let the race begin.