Who is currently leading the Kentucky Derby 2026 rankings?

Paladin is currently leading the Kentucky Derby 2026 rankings after winning the Risen Star Stakes.

Which horses have been removed from the Derby trail due to injury?

Mesquite has been removed from the Derby trail due to a soft-tissue injury, and Thunderously will miss the Triple Crown season due to a setback.

What are the upcoming major prep races for the Kentucky Derby 2026 contenders?

Upcoming major prep races include the Florida Derby on March 28, the Arkansas Derby on March 28, and the Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park on February 28.

Home / Sports / Paladin Dominates Derby Rankings After Risen Star Win

Paladin Dominates Derby Rankings After Risen Star Win

23 Feb

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Summary

Paladin secured a commanding Risen Star Stakes victory, solidifying his top ranking.
Several horses, including Mesquite and Thunderously, exited the Derby trail due to injuries.
New contenders Al Haram and top horses like Renegade and Nearly eye upcoming major races.

Paladin Dominates Derby Rankings After Risen Star Win

Paladin has solidified his top spot in the Kentucky Derby rankings after a convincing win in the Risen Star Stakes on Saturday. The colt, trained by Chad Brown, earned 50 qualifying points, making his entry into the May 2 Churchill Downs race highly probable. This victory marks his third consecutive win of the season.

Notable horses have been affected by setbacks. Mesquite has exited the Derby trail due to a soft-tissue injury, and Thunderously suffered a setback that will keep him out of the Triple Crown season. Courting also dropped out of the top 20 after a sixth-place finish.