The dream of a Triple Crown champion will have to wait at least another year. Golden Tempo, this year's Kentucky Derby winner, will not run in the Preakness Stakes, his trainer's stable announced Wednesday, ending hopes for a historic sweep of horse racing's most prestigious series.

"Golden gave us the race of a lifetime in the Kentucky Derby, and we believe the best decision for him moving forward is to give him a little more time following such a tremendous effort," said a statement from trainer Cherie DeVaux's stable. "His health, happiness, and long-term future will always remain our top priority."

The announcement marks the second consecutive year that the Derby winner has bypassed the Preakness. Last year, Sovereignty skipped the middle jewel and went on to win the Belmont Stakes, setting a potential precedent for Golden Tempo's camp. DeVaux's stable indicated the bay colt could target the Belmont Stakes next month, the third and final leg of the Triple Crown.

"We are looking forward to pointing him toward the Belmont Stakes and are excited for what lies ahead with this very special horse," the statement added.

The last horse to win the Triple Crown—the Derby, Preakness, and Belmont—was Justify in 2018, a feat that remains one of the rarest and most celebrated achievements in all of sports. For now, Golden Tempo's team is playing the long game, prioritizing the colt's well-being over the immediate pursuit of history. Fans will have to wait until June to see if this Derby champion can add another chapter to his story.