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3mo ago

Sovereignty Triumphs Over Journalism in Kentucky Derby Upset

The 7-1 longshot, trained by Bill Mott and ridden by Venezuelan jockey Junior Alvarado, won on a muddy Churchill Downs track, sparking symbolic political reactions and uncertainty about the Preakness.

Jockey Junior Alvarado celebrates as he and Sovereignty win the 2025 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 03: Sovereignty #18, ridden by jockey Junior Alvarado crosses the finish line to win the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 03, 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Sovereignty, ridden by Junior Alvarado, left, crosses the finish line to win the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby horse race at Churchill Downs Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Overview

  • Sovereignty, a 7-1 underdog, defeated the 3-1 favorite Journalism to win the 151st Kentucky Derby by 1 1/2 lengths.
  • Persistent rain created a muddy track that shaped the race outcome, with Sovereignty excelling in the challenging conditions.
  • Trainer Bill Mott is prioritizing Sovereignty's long-term career and has not committed to entering the colt in the Preakness Stakes.
  • Jockey Junior Alvarado, an immigrant from Venezuela, celebrated his first Derby win, fulfilling a dream inspired by his father.
  • The race result drew political commentary, with Trump administration officials framing Sovereignty's victory over Journalism as symbolically significant.