Preakness 2026: Napoleon Solo wins unprecedented race at Laurel Park
LAUREL, Md. — Napoleon Solo, a long shot on the morning betting line, emerged victorious from the throes of the largest Preakness Stakes field in 15 years at Laurel Park on Saturday. The 3-year-old colt — trained by Chad Summers, owned by Gold Square LLC and jockeyed by Paco Lopez — was patient.
It was a fast-paced race. He settled into second place behind the favorite, Taj Mahal. In the final stretch, Napoleon Solo made his move, crossing the line first by multiple lengths in 1 minute, 58.
69 seconds. Iron Honor came in second and Chip Honcho finished third. Summers, who won his first Preakness in his first start, bear-hugged family and friends beside him.
Napoleon Solo was named for a fictional character in the 1960s spy television series, “The Man from U. N. C.
L. E. ” He was a leading contender in the Kentucky Derby this time last year, having won a Grade 1 in October 2025.