Umberto Rispoli jockeys Journalism (2) to victory at the 150th Preakness Stakes Baltimore (AP News photo)

By Michael Villanueva

On May 17, 2025, at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Journalism won the 150th Preakness Stakes in an exciting demonstration of willpower and planning. Journalism, ridden by Italian jockey Umberto Rispoli and trained by Michael McCarthy, overcame early obstacles to secure the victory in the closing stages, completing the 1 3/16-mile race in 1:55.37.

Journalism started the race in the middle of the pack, where he was bumped and pushed by rivals. However, Journalism stormed ahead and defeated longshot Gosger by half a length as Rispoli maneuvered a tiny gap down the barrier. Sandman completed the top three finishers with third place.

This win was an unforgettable turning point for the jockey and the horse. Rispoli became the first jockey born in Italy to win a Triple Crown race, and it was his first victory overall. In addition to his remarkable career achievements, trainer Michael McCarthy celebrated winning his second Preakness title.

Since Sovereignty, the winner of the Kentucky Derby, chose not to enter the Preakness, there was no chance of a Triple Crown winner this year. Journalism, who had placed second in the Derby, took advantage of the situation and became just the fourth Derby runner-up to win the Preakness since 1961.

Given it being the last race carried out at the legendary Pimlico Race Course before the course’s scheduled $400 million renovation, the 2025 Preakness Stakes also had historical significance. The venue’s rich history in horse racing was honored with heartfelt farewells from pros and fans. It is believed that the newly renovated Pimlico Race Course will be finished by 2027, and the Preakness Stakes and other well-known races will return at the restored course.”