LEXINGTON, Ky. — Considered the top challenger to Kentucky Derby winner Mage, First Mission was scratched from the Preakness after consultation with the Pimlico veterinary team on Friday morning.
According to a press release from Godolphin, the winner of the Lexington Stakes was scratched because of a problem with his left hind foot. First Mission was the second-favorite in the Preakness morning line at 5-2.
It’s the second time in this year’s Triple Crown races that a top contender has been scratched because of a foot problem. Kentucky Derby morning line favorite Forte was scratched the morning of the race by the state veterinarian at Churchill Downs.