Napoleon Solo holds off Iron Honor to win relocated Preakness Stakes

Napoleon Solo held off a late challenge from Iron Honor to win the Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park, securing his first victory of the year in the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

The 7-1 shot took the lead near the top of the stretch and finished one and a quarter lengths ahead of the runner-up.

Chip Honcho secured third place in a wide-open field of 14 contenders.

Derby winner absence creates historic odds

With Kentucky Derby champion Golden Tempo held out of the race, the betting market was left unusually fractured.

Unbeaten colt Taj Mahal started as the 9-2 favourite, representing the longest odds for a top choice since the race moved to its current distance in 1925.

Trainer Brittany Russell’s highly fancied entrant broke quickly to lead the first quarter-mile in 22.66 seconds before fading in the crucial closing stages.

Morning line favourite Iron Honor also saw his odds drift to an 8-1 shot by the time the horses entered the starting gate.

A subdued atmosphere away from Pimlico

This year’s prestigious event was temporarily relocated to Maryland’s Laurel Park while its traditional home at Pimlico undergoes extensive rebuilding work.

Known historically for its rowdy infield crowds and live music, the latest edition featured a significantly more subdued atmosphere.

Organisers capped attendance at just 4,800 spectators, providing a stark contrast to the usual throngs of racing enthusiasts.