Napoleon Solo, the equine spy, is set to make waves in the Preakness Stakes, a pivotal moment in his career. After a dazzling 2-year-old campaign, the son of Liam's Map has faced setbacks and challenges as a 3-year-old, leaving his connections hopeful for a plot twist in Maryland. With a keen early speed and a recent surge in form, Napoleon Solo is poised to dictate the early fractions and control the race, potentially setting fast enough fractions to exhaust early leaders and bolster the closers' chances. His recent works at Belmont Park have been impressive, with a 6-furlong time of 1:10, prompting a veteran trainer to remark on the rarity of such a fast work over that surface. This raises the question of whether Napoleon Solo can revert to his 2-year-old form or continue his 2026 slide. The colt's ability to carry his speed when completely fit is a key factor, and the Preakness provides an opportunity to test this. Trainer Chad Summers and owner Al Gold are optimistic, with Summers noting the colt's positive signs and the confidence-boosting fast works. The decision to run in the Preakness instead of a shorter stakes is a calculated risk, as Gold humorously suggests, and Summers believes it's a litmus test for the colt's potential. The outcome will determine whether Napoleon Solo uncovers a winning formula and silences his rivals, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the equine spy's next move.
