Michelle Yu Backs 5-1 Taj Mahal in 2026 Preakness, Fades 9-2 Favorite Iron Honor

7 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · May 16

Taj Mahal emerged as Michelle Yu’s key 2026 Preakness play, with the handicapper citing his 3-for-3 record at Laurel Park and recent Federico Tesio win over 1 1/8 miles.
Iron Honor, the 9-2 morning-line favorite, is not Yu’s top win pick after he finished seventh in the 1 1/8-mile Wood Memorial and has yet to prove himself at the Preakness distance of 1 3/16 miles.
The Saturday race at Laurel Park is set for 7:01 p.m. ET, with Chip Honcho, Incredibolt and Taj Mahal all listed at 5-1, followed by Ocelli at 6-1 and Napoleon Solo at 8-1.
Golden Tempo’s absence after winning the Kentucky Derby guarantees another year without a Triple Crown champion and could open the door for a double-digit longshot to win the Preakness.

Can an undefeated 'horse for the course' upset the favorite at a venue known for longshot victories?

A top handicapper is fading the favorite and backing a massive longshot. Who is the secret contender?

Will trainer Brittany Russell make history today with her undefeated horse in the 151st Preakness Stakes?