In a stretch run reminiscent of the May 3 Kentucky Derby (G1), Sovereignty charged past Journalism to win the Belmont Stakes (G1), with Baeza rounding out the trifecta June 7 at Saratoga Race Course.

"He's twice his size, so maybe he can go twice as far," Hall of Fame trainer Asmussen quipped in comparing Spice Runner to Gunite.

The 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs is still 33 weeks away, but the Derby trail officially begins Sept. 13 beneath the twin spires.

The Iroquois Stakes (G3) awards qualifying points to the 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1).

California racing representatives acknowledge the importance of maintaining the stature of the Santa Anita Derby (G1) and the state's other major races for 3-year-olds.