Trainer Bill Mott's decision to skip the Preakness for Sovereignty reflects a growing recognition in horse racing of the importance of horse welfare over the pursuit of accolades like the Triple Crown.

The absence of a Triple Crown winner for another year highlights the need for reform in the schedule of major races to allow for better recovery for horses, as suggested by various industry voices.

The ongoing trend of top Derby finishers bypassing the Preakness raises questions about the current structure of the Triple Crown races and their ability to attract elite competition.

Sovereignty, the 2025 Kentucky Derby winner, will not race in the Preakness Stakes, resulting in no Triple Crown winner for the seventh consecutive year.

Trainer Bill Mott emphasized the importance of prioritizing the horse's well-being, stating the decision to skip the Preakness was made with long-term interests in mind. The plan is to enter Sovereignty in the Belmont Stakes on June 7 at Saratoga.

The Preakness Stakes comes just two weeks after the Kentucky Derby, raising concerns about the scheduling and whether it allows for the best horses to compete.

The decision for Sovereignty to skip the Preakness is a strategic choice by trainer Bill Mott for the horse's long-term health, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing care over immediate competitive success.

Sovereignty's absence at Pimlico continues a disappointing trend; three out of the last six Derby winners have not run in this significant race, suggesting a need for reevaluation of racing schedules.

Many industry figures acknowledge that the tight two-week turnaround from the Derby to the Preakness is too demanding on horses, with proposals circulating for a more spaced-out Triple Crown schedule.