Maryland-based Taj Mahal enters 151st Preakness Stakes undefeated despite rail post disadvantage
CBS Sports analysis suggests stalking tactics may neutralise the rail position, though betting odds remain at 5-1
Ahead of the 151st Preakness Stakes on Saturday, 16 May 2026, the undefeated Taj Mahal enters the field with a perfect 3-for-3 record. The Maryland-based horse is trained by Brittany Russell, who aims to become the first woman to win the Preakness Stakes if her charge succeeds. CBS Sports published a detailed profile on 12 May 2026, highlighting the horse's sharp form and the historic significance of the event for the training stable.
The horse has demonstrated exceptional speed in recent outings, winning his last two starts wire-to-wire. His most recent performance at nine furlongs was particularly dominant, where he recorded a 92 Beyer Speed Figure after winning by 8¼ lengths. This level of form has been underpinned by four straight bullet workouts, with two consecutive efforts at five furlongs prior to the race.
A significant tactical challenge looms for the contender, however, as Taj Mahal has been assigned post position 1, the rail. Analysis indicates this position presents a distinct disadvantage, as the horse is unlikely to clear the field without setting a suicidal pace. The rail draw forces a specific strategic approach that differs from the off-the-pace style seen in the horse's maiden victory.
To mitigate this hurdle, CBS Sports analysis suggests jockey Sheldon Russell may employ stalking tactics. This strategy relies on the expectation that immediate rivals Ocelli and Crupper, positioned to the right of the rail, will not display significant early speed. If these rivals remain passive, it could allow the jockey to position the horse outside and avoid the pressure of leading the field.
The morning line betting odds for Taj Mahal are listed as 5-1 by DK Horse. The article notes that as the house horse, there is a possibility of significant support at the windows, which could see the price move down from the initial setting. This potential shift in betting sentiment adds another layer of complexity to the race dynamics ahead of the event.
This contest marks the first time since 1979 that a Maryland-based horse is set to contest the Preakness Stakes. The last winner from the state was Spectacular Bid, a statistic that adds weight to the local hope surrounding Taj Mahal. Russell's success here would follow her achievement in 2025 as the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner, though her record in graded stakes on dirt over the last five years stands at 0-for-32.
