A week ago today, May 3, 2025, jockey Junior Alvarado led Sovereignty to victory in the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Just a few days later, trainer Bill Mott revealed Sovereignty wouldn't be running in the 150th Preakness Stakes,

Junior Alvarado was given a $62,000 fine and suspended for two upcoming racing days for striking Sovereignty eight times with his riding crop during the Kentucky Derby.

Jockey Junior Alvarado has been fined and suspended for whipping Sovereignty too many times during his Kentucky Derby-winning ride last Saturday at Churchill Downs. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority on Friday ordered Alvarado to pay a $62,000 fine and suspended him for two Kentucky racing days, May 29 and May 30.