Kentucky Derby Contenders: Napoleon Solo Prepares for Fountain of Youth or Gotham
As the 2026 Kentucky Derby draws closer, several promising three-year-olds are vying for a spot in the starting gate. Among them, Gold Square LLC’s Napoleon Solo is generating excitement, with trainer Chad Summers weighing options for the colt’s next start: the Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream Park or the Gotham at Aqueduct Racetrack.
Napoleon Solo’s Impressive Form
Napoleon Solo has quickly established himself as a leading contender, remaining undefeated and securing a Grade 1 victory. He earned 10 points on the 2026 Road to the Kentucky Derby challenge series with a dominant 6 1/2-length triumph in the $500,000 Champagne S. (G1) at Aqueduct on October 4, 2025. Kentucky Derby Profile. The Liam’s Map colt is currently trained by Chad Summers and ridden by Joel Rosario.
Upcoming Race Options: Fountain of Youth vs. Gotham
Summers is considering two potential paths for Napoleon Solo’s next race on February 28th. The $400,000 Fountain of Youth (G2) at Gulfstream Park offers a 50-25-15-10-5 point distribution towards Kentucky Derby qualification, whereas the $300,000 Gotham (G3) at Aqueduct provides a 50-25-15-10-5 point structure. The decision hinges on several factors, including weather conditions in New York and the potential for easier competition in the Gotham.
“Both the Gotham and Fountain of Youth are on the radar,” Summers stated. “We’ll keep an eye on the weather in New York. The Gotham makes sense as he’s had success over the track, it’s a one-turn mile and possibly easier competition off the freshening, but it’s also a 26-hour van ride.” Bloodhorse.com
Recent Workout and Preparation
On Friday, Napoleon Solo completed a five-eighths workout at Palm Meadows in 1:01.45, in company with Ruleroftheuniverse (1:02.15), preparing for his upcoming race. Summers expressed satisfaction with the colt’s progress, noting that everything is “on track” for a February 28th start. NYRA.com
Other Kentucky Derby Prospects
While Napoleon Solo is a key contender, other horses are also making their mark on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. National Identity recently topped stakes winners at Aqueduct, earning a 96 Beyer Speed Figure after winning the Say Florida Sandy. Galinda and Arctic Beast also secured impressive victories in state-bred stakes races at Aqueduct, positioning themselves as potential contenders.
Two Out Hero, trained by Kevin Attard, is also under consideration for the Derby trail, drawing post 12 for the John Battaglia Memorial at Turfway Park.
Looking Ahead
As the February 28th races approach, trainers will be closely evaluating their horses’ readiness and making strategic decisions to maximize their chances of securing a spot in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. Napoleon Solo’s connections face a crucial choice between the Fountain of Youth and the Gotham, a decision that could significantly impact the colt’s path to Churchill Downs.