Sovereignty Wins 151st Kentucky Derby, Godolphin’s First Triumph

Sovereignty won the 151st Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, overcoming muddy conditions and a competitive 19-horse field. Trained by Bill Mott, who secured his second Derby victory, and ridden by jockey Junior Alvarado, who earned his first, Sovereignty, at 9-1 odds, outran favourite Journalism (3-1) in a thrilling stretch run, with Baeza finishing third. Owned by Godolphin and founded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the victory marked the stable’s first Derby win. The $5 million purse saw Sovereignty claim $3.1 million. The race, run on a sloppy track due to earlier rain, showcased Sovereignty’s late charge, finishing in 2:02.31. Alvarado, a Venezuelan-born jockey, dedicated the win to his family, noting the horse’s loyalty during his recent injury recovery. Every horse in the race descended from Secretariat, per The Courier-Journal. Bob Baffert’s return after a three-year ban saw his horse Citizen Bull finish 15th. The event drew significant betting, with a $2 win bet on Sovereignty paying $17.96. Godolphin also won the Kentucky Oaks the previous day, a rare feat.