The Preakness 2025 results crowned Journalism as the champion in a dramatic finish at Pimlico Race Course, marking the end of an era for the historic Baltimore track. Jockey Umberto Rispoli and trainer Michael McCarthy secured their place in Triple Crown history, while the absence of Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty added intrigue to the 150th running of this iconic race.

Preakness 2025 Results: A Race Defined by Grit and Strategy

The Preakness 2025 will be remembered as a masterclass in perseverance. Journalism, the 8-5 favorite, overcame early adversity to claim victory in the final Preakness at the current Pimlico Race Course. After finishing second in the Kentucky Derby, the colt silenced doubters with a powerful surge past Gosger and Sandman, completing the 1 3/16-mile race in 1:55.37.

Breaking Down the Race Dynamics

1. Early Challenges: Journalism faced traffic near the quarter pole when Bob Baffert’s Goal Oriented drifted outward, forcing jockey Umberto Rispoli to adjust tactics.

2. Historic Finish: Rispoli, the first Italian jockey to win a Triple Crown race, later reflected: “When I crossed the wire, 20 years of my career flashed before me. This horse is special.”

3. Triple Crown Implications: With Sovereignty skipping the race, Journalism’s win reignited debates about 2025’s top 3-year-old thoroughbred.

Preakness 2025 Horses: Profiles of the Top Contenders

The nine-horse field blended Derby veterans and fresh challengers. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

Journalism: The Redemption Story

• Odds: 8-5

• Pedigree: Sired by 2017 Preakness winner Cloud Computing

• Journey: Improved to 5-1-1 in 7 starts, proving his durability on dry tracks after struggling in the Derby’s slop.

Gosger & Sandman: The Persistent Challengers

• Gosger (9-5): Held the lead until the final furloon, showcasing consistency with 3 wins in 5 starts.

• Sandman (4-1): Trainer D. Wayne Lukas’ entry demonstrated veteran poise to secure third.

Notable Absences & Newcomers

• Sovereignty: The Derby winner’s owners prioritized the Belmont Stakes’ longer 1.5-mile distance.

• River Thames & Clever Again: First-time Triple Crown entrants finished mid-pack but showed potential for future races.

Preakness 2025 Payouts:

• Journalism: $4(Win),$2.80 (Place), $2.40 (Show)

• Exacta (Journalism-Gosger): $15.60

• Full results at Pimlico’s official site.

Pimlico’s Farewell: The End of an Era

The Preakness 2025 served as a bittersweet goodbye to the current Pimlico Race Course, which will undergo a $400 million reconstruction. The 150th running attracted 65,000 fans, many emotional about the track’s temporary closure.

What’s Next for the Preakness?

• 2026: The race moves to Laurel Park during Pimlico’s rebuild.

• 2027: A modernized Pimlico reopens with enhanced facilities and seating.

Historic Context:

• Pimlico hosted its first Preakness in 1873.

• Michael McCarthy joined elite trainers like Bob Baffert (8 wins) and D. Wayne Lukas (7 wins) with his second Preakness victory.

Behind the Scenes: Trainer & Jockey Insights

Michael McCarthy’s Emotional Triumph

The California-based trainer, still displaced by wildfires, dedicated the win to his hometown: “This is for Altadena. We’ll rebuild together.” McCarthy’s strategy to keep Journalism slightly off the pace proved crucial.

Umberto Rispoli’s Historic Achievement

The 36-year-old jockey, known for his European success, broke barriers: “To win here, with this horse—it’s a privilege.”

Preakness 2025 FAQs

1. What time was the Preakness 2025 post time?
7:01 PM ET on May 17, 2025.

2. Why wasn’t Sovereignty in the Preakness?
The owner is concerned about the two-week recovery period.

3. How does Journalism’s win impact Triple Crown standings?
It sets up a Belmont Stakes showdown with Sovereignty on June 7.

4. What were the track conditions?
Fast and dry (labeled “good”) after weeklong rains cleared.

5. Who trained Goal Oriented?
Bob Baffert, who has 8 Preakness wins.

6. What’s special about the 2025 Preakness trophy?
It featured a commemorative design honoring Pimlico’s 150-year history.

7. Will Journalism race in the Belmont?
Yes, per McCarthy: “He’s thriving—we’re going to Saratoga.”

8. How many Triple Crown races has Rispoli won?
This marks his first.

9. What’s Pimlico’s future capacity post-renovation?
Plans suggest 35,000 permanent seats with expandable options.

10. Where can I watch Belmont 2025?
NBC Sports holds broadcasting rights.

The Road to the Triple Crown: What’s Next?

All eyes now turn to the 2025 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga, where Journalism and Sovereignty’s rivalry could decide Horse of the Year honors. Meanwhile, Pimlico’s rebuild promises to blend tradition with modernity, ensuring the Preakness remains a crown jewel of horse racing.

Key Dates:

• Belmont Stakes: June 7, 2025 (Saratoga Race Course)

• Preakness 2026: May 16, 2026 (Laurel Park)

Final Thoughts

The Preakness 2025 results didn’t just celebrate a race—they honored 150 years of history while paving the way for a new chapter. As Journalism eyes the Belmont, fans worldwide await the next thrilling installment of Triple Crown drama.