Left, Sovereignty and Junior Alvarado in the 2025 Kentucky Derby; right, Journalism and Umberto Rispoli in the 2025 Preakness, the colt’s second of three Triple Crown races. (Courtney /Past The WireSnow. )
Past The Wire Staff
Sovereignty and Journalism: too soon to remind us of Affirmed and Alydar?
Isn’t this what racing needs more of, Sovereignty and Journalism heading into the stretch.
The budding rivalry between Sovereignty and Journalism is quickly becoming one of the most compelling storylines in modern horse racing. With both colts showcasing elite talent and so far, this season, their head-to-head matchups and contrasting running styles have added a layer of intrigue that’s great for the sport. Fans, bettors, and analysts alike are leaning in, eager to see how this dynamic unfolds as we head deeper into the racing calendar.
Ace handicapper and Past the Wire founder Jonathan Stettin has often remarked on a fascinating angle in this rivalry: he believes Journalism is best when he has a target. That insight gains even more weight when you consider that we have yet to see Journalism stalking Sovereignty in a race. Instead, it’s been Sovereignty doing the following—or at least keeping tabs from off the pace. The idea of flipping that script is tantalizing. Could Journalism elevate his game if he were chasing Sovereignty rather than being the one under pressure early? That question may not have an answer yet, but it sets up narrative rich with possibility and anticipation.
While Sovereignty is the clear frontrunner for the three-year-old championship as things stand, Journalism is not conceding an inch. With several major stakes still ahead—including potential showdowns in the Travers and beyond—Journalism has every opportunity to force the conversation. Both colts are likely headed for the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar, a race that could go down as one for the ages if top older horses like Sierra Leone and Mindframe show up in peak form. The generational clash that could unfold in California may not just determine Eclipse Award honors, but also leave a lasting imprint on racing history.
Ultimately, this rivalry is doing what every great rivalry in sports does: raising the bar. It’s pushing both horses to deliver their best and inviting fans to care deeply about the outcome. Whether it’s Sovereignty’s commanding presence or Journalism’s tactical versatility, they’re giving racing the type of drama that draws new fans in and keeps seasoned ones engaged. As the Breeders’ Cup looms and the stakes rise, this storyline is only just beginning.
