Journalism Seeks Revenge Against Sovereignty in Third Chapter of a Thrilling Rivalry

Preakness Winner Returns at Oaklawn Looking to Turn the Tables on the Champion

HOT SPRINGS, Arkansas (Special to Turf Diario).- The recent scoreline reads 2-0 in favor of Sovereignty (Into Mischief), but that was in 2025. Now, with both colts more mature and entering a new phase of their careers, Journalismwill get his chance at revenge this Saturday in the Oaklawn Handicap (G2), where the third chapter of a rivalry on the rise will be written.

The stage is set over nine furlongs at Oaklawn Park, in a clash that also features the accomplished White Abarrio (Race Day), forming a high-class trio that adds significant depth to the early-season calendar.

Trained in California by Michael McCarthy, Journalism will make his return after finishing fourth against older rivals in the GI Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar. Since then, his preparation has been carefully managed, highlighted by a five-furlong breeze in 1:00.20 on Apr. 10 at Santa Anita, which ultimately convinced his connections to ship.

“He was starting to tell us he needed more than just weekly works,” McCarthy said. “We know Oaklawn, and we think his style fits well here. It’s a small field, but very strong.”

And he’s not wrong. While Sovereignty dominated 2025, Journalism was never far behind. Winner of the GI Preakness Stakes, he also finished second to Sovereignty in both the GI Kentucky Derby and GI Belmont Stakes, while adding victories in the GI Santa Anita Derby and GI Haskell Stakes. His record—six wins from 11 starts and earnings in excess of $4.3 million—places him among the leading members of his generation, now looking to establish himself against older horses.

Purchased by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners for $825,000 at Fasig-Tipton, the son of Curlin appears to be coming into his own at the right time.

“He’s a big horse, getting stronger all the time. Everything is starting to come easier to him,” McCarthy added, confident that his best may still lie ahead.

With Jose Ortiz set to ride and installed as the second choice at 5-2 on the morning line, Journalism enters with both motivation and credentials. If the first two meetings went to Sovereignty, this third encounter could prove a turning point. And at Oaklawn, the stage is set to find out whether the script changes… or holds firm.