Sovereignty Skips Preakness Stakes 2025: No Triple Crown This Year, But Journalism is Set to Win the Race

Game Info: May 17, 2025 6:50 ET @ Pimlico Race Course, Baltimore, Maryland

Moving forward, the 2025 Preakness Stakes will not see one of its most talked-about contenders-Sovereignty, the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt many believed had Triple Crown potential. This absence reshapes the race but also guarantees one thing-that there will be no Triple Crown winner this year.

With its dust settling, another competitor is entering the limelight-Journalism, a horse whose name is heavier than racing glory.

Why Sovereignty’s Exit Ends Triple Crown Dreams

Sovereignty’s withdrawal from the Preakness means that should the Kentucky Derby winner go on to win at Pimlico, the coronation of the Belmont Stakes will never take place. The last-minute scratch ensures that the elusive Triple Crown—achieved only 13 times in history—remains unclaimed for another year.

Possible reasons for Sovereignty’s absence may be:

• Strategic Rest-The connections may be looking toward bigger international races later in the season. 
• Distance Consideration-The Preakness might have too short of a distance and have tight turns for his style of running.
• Injury Prevention-Possibly after a tough Derby, the main concern of the horse may be protecting its future health. 

Whatever the reason, the dream of a Triple Crown in 2025 is officially done before the second leg even gets underway.

Why Journalism is the New Story to Watch

With nothing at stake for the Triple Crown, the Preakness becomes for all intents and purposes a battle for honor-and Journalism is a worthy contender. In spite of not being the horse to hype on, Journalism has continually shown up with useful results under pressure. His stamina may come into play if the pace fizzles with short distance left to go.

A Race Beyond the Finish Line

The absence of sovereignty is a reminder that the brightest stars too fade from view at times. Journalism, meanwhile, embodies persistence; a quality the finest thoroughbreds and great reporters share. 

The 2025 Triple Crown itself may no longer be in consequences, but Preakness is filled with drama, redemption, and that ever-elusive shot for an underdog to shine. As the stories change by the second, Journalism-both horse and institution-will continue to travel this road.