Napoleon Solo, a horse doubted by many including his own connections, triumphed in the 2026 Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park, overcoming skepticism about his ability to handle the 1 3/16-mile distance. Trained by Chad Summers and ridden by jockey Paco Lopez, Napoleon Solo executed a perfectly timed race, tracking the pacesetter Taj Mahal before making a decisive move on the far turn to win by 1 1/4 lengths. Despite a challenging start to his three-year-old season, including setbacks and underwhelming finishes, the team’s faith in his high cruising speed and potential paid off, marking their first Preakness victory.

The win also highlighted the unique Chadxacta, with trainers Chad Summers and Chad Brown finishing first and second respectively, a rare occurrence in Grade 1 races. With Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo absent from the Preakness, the Triple Crown remains wide open, and Summers expressed optimism about the championship race ahead. The Belmont Stakes at Saratoga will be the next major test, promising a rematch between top Derby finishers and continuing the competitive narrative of this year’s three-year-old crop.