Kentucky Derby winner skipping Preakness Stakes, won't make Triple Crown run

Cherie DeVaux on making history with Golden Tempo's Kentucky Derby win 07:07

Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo will skip the Preakness Stakes and not make a run for horse racing's Triple Crown, his trainer's stable announced Wednesday.

"Golden gave us the race of a lifetime in the Kentucky Derby, and we believe the best decision for him moving forward is to give him a little more time following such a tremendous effort," said a statement from trainer Cherie DeVaux's stable posted to social media. "His health, happiness, and long-term future will always remain our top priority."

The last time a horse won the Triple Crown — the three-race series consisting of the Derby, the Preakness in Maryland and the Belmont Stakes in New York — was in 2018.

Puerto Rican jockey Jose Ortiz, riding Golden Tempo, celebrates after winning the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 2, 2026. / Credit: Leandro Lozada /AFP via Getty Images

DeVaux's stable indicated the bay colt could race at the Belmont next month.

"We are looking forward to pointing him toward the Belmont Stakes and are excited for what lies ahead with this very special horse," the statement said.