Trainer Bill Mott has previously won the Kentucky Derby without his horse finishing first. In 2019, his horse Country House was declared the winner after Maximum Security was disqualified for interference. This remains Mott’s sole Derby victory, and this year, the veteran trainer hopes to see his late-running horse Sovereignty leave the gate and finish strong.
Horse Overview
18 Sovereignty (5-1)
- Trainer: Bill Mott
- Jockey: Junior Alvarado
- Last Race: Second in the Florida Derby by 1¼ lengths
- Career Record: 5 starts: 2 wins, 2 seconds
- Career Earnings: $572,800
- Best Beyer Speed Figure: 95 (2025 Fountain of Youth Stakes)
- Sire: Into Mischief
Sovereignty is featured as part of our series profiling the contenders in the upcoming 151st Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 3. This article analyzes previous performances, the significant questions to consider, and how the post draw may impact his chances.
Kentucky Derby Insights
Sovereignty could be the strongest competitor among those who have previously raced at Churchill Downs. Following a vigorous layoff, he made an impactful return to racing by clinching victory in the Fountain of Youth Stakes, showing that he is a major candidate for a win in this year’s Derby. Sovereignty’s running style should help him navigate through a field abundant with speed.
Post Position Analysis
With the assigned post position of No. 18, Sovereignty will likely begin towards the back of the pack. He aims to save ground around the initial turn before making a late charge. Jockey Junior Alvarado will need to time his acceleration well to optimize Sovereignty’s chance of crossing the finish line first.
