Ocelli Emerging as Key Contender for 2027 Preakness Stakes
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
With Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Golden Tempo skipping the Preakness Stakes (G1), attention is shifting to Derby third-place finisher Ocelli as betting opens for Saturday’s $2 million race at Laurel Park.
Ocelli remains winless in seven starts but comes off a strong performance in the Kentucky Derby, where he finished only one length behind the winner after leading in the final furlong. His stretch-running style is expected to suit the projected fast pace in the Preakness, giving him a realistic chance to secure his first career victory against a full field of 14 three-year-olds.
This year’s Preakness features just three horses exiting the Kentucky Derby and only one Grade 1 winner overall, yet handicappers see depth in the field. Early expert predictions point to Iron Honor as a leading choice, while updated post-Derby power rankings highlight how the Preakness outcome could influence voting for the season-ending Eclipse Award for three-year-old males.
Fans can follow developments and learn more about the Kentucky Derby and Preakness contenders on the official website as the Triple Crown series continues.