In the world of horse racing, Chip Honcho has become a name to watch. While the horse’s initial races saw him placing in the top two four times out of his first five starts, it’s his most recent performance that captures the attention of many enthusiasts strategizing their bets for the 2026 Preakness Stakes. Chip Honcho finished fifth at the Louisiana Derby, a significant race because it shares the same distance as the upcoming Preakness Stakes—1 3/16 miles. This length, which marked his poorest finish yet, is a crucial factor for bettors as they consider their wagering strategies.
Despite this less-than-stellar outcome, Chip Honcho remains a strong contender with 5-1 odds for the Preakness Stakes, second only to Iron Honor, who stands at 9-2. Other horses with competitive single-digit odds include Incredibolt (5-1), Taj Mahal (5-1), Ocelli (6-1), and Napoleon Solo (8-1). The much-anticipated race is set for Saturday at 6:50 p.m. ET at Laurel Park. Before placing any bets, it’s wise to consult the insights of Jody Demling, SportsLine’s renowned horse racing expert, who offers predictions and best betting strategies for the 2026 Preakness Stakes.
Demling is a respected figure in the horse racing community, known for his extensive experience in writing, discussing, and betting on races. His track record includes accurately predicting the top three finishers in the 2025 Kentucky Derby and calling 11 of the last 21 Preakness winners. His notable successes include hitting the winner, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta at the 2023 Preakness and nailing the trifecta in 2024. Following his guidance on horse racing betting sites could prove highly profitable.
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With the field for the 2026 Preakness Stakes now confirmed, Demling’s betting insights and predictions are available at SportsLine. Those eager to see his expert picks can visit SportsLine for a detailed analysis.
Top 2026 Preakness Stakes predictions
Among Demling’s intriguing picks for the 2026 Preakness is Napoleon Solo, with odds at 8-1. Though the horse has placed fifth in both starts this season, he boasts an impressive pedigree. Napoleon Solo was undefeated as a juvenile and is sired by Liam’s Map, a multiple G1 race winner, including the 2015 Breeders’ Cup. His damsire, Scat Daddy, also boasts a winning G1 record. This lineage, along with other favorable traits, makes Napoleon Solo a compelling contender according to Demling’s analysis.
Napoleon Solo also has an Equibase Speed Figure of 99, which is tied with Ocelli for the highest in the 2026 Preakness Stakes field. The former is a pace-setting type of horse who should be near the front of the pack. Demling believes he has a chance to recapture the form he displayed as a juvenile, saying that Napoleon Solo “is not without a shot to hit the board.” See which other horses to back at SportsLine.
Another surprise: He’s fading Chip Honcho, even though he’s one of the favorites at 5-1. The Steve Asmussen-trained horse had a great start to his race career, taking first or second in each of his first three races, and he did finish second at the Grade 2 Risen Star Stakes on Valentine’s Day, besting Kentucky Derby champion Rising Tempo.
But while Chip Honcho has had steady speed ratings over his career, it hasn’t seen a steady increase with added experience or higher level of competition. Demling is keeping an eye on Chip Honcho, but at 5-1 Preakness Stakes odds, he likes other contenders a little more. See which other horses to fade at SportsLine.
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How to make 2026 Preakness Stakes picks, bets
Demling is also especially high on an epic double-digit longshot “with a chance” to win it all. Anyone who backs this sleeper pick could hit it big. Demling is sharing which horse it is, along with his entire projected 2026 Preakness Stakes leaderboard, over at SportsLine.
Which horse wins the Preakness Stakes 2026, and which stunning longshot is a must-back? Check out the latest 2026 Preakness Stakes odds below, then visit SportsLine to see Demling’s picks for the Preakness Stakes, all from the expert who has nailed the last three winners.
