2026 Florida Derby Early Look: Contenders, Trainer Updates & Workouts
As we get closer to one of the most important Kentucky Derby preps, it’s time to take an early look at the 2026 Florida Derby. Today, we’re focusing on the top early contenders and what their trainers are saying as race week approaches. Keep in mind, the field isn’t final—more horses will likely be added—but for now, our attention is on Commandment, Nearly, Chief Wallabee, and The Puma.
This preview is about workouts, trainer comments, and early impressions that could give bettors an edge before the public catches on. Let’s break down how these horses are training, what their connections expect, and why they could be key players in this 1 1/8-mile prep.
Commandment
Commandment, trained by Brad Cox and winner of the 2026 Fountain of Youth, has already made a strong impression this year. Gulfstream insiders report he’s training exceptionally well heading into the Florida Derby.
Cox has kept Commandment sharp with maintenance breezes designed to fine-tune him without overworking him after the Fountain of Youth. Recent reports show him breezing five-eighths in 1:02 and change, moving effortlessly and with plenty left in the tank. The strategy is classic Cox: keep the colt fresh, confident, and learning from each outing. With Derby points already in hand, this prep serves as both a test and a tune-up for the next challenge.
Commandment prefers to sit mid-pack and make his move late—a tactic that paid off in the Fountain of Youth. His workouts indicate he’s physically peaking, and Cox believes he can handle the 1 1/8-mile distance. From a betting perspective, he’ll benefit if there’s pace pressure up front, allowing him to close strongly in the stretch.
Nearly
Next up is Nearly, trained by Todd Pletcher, who most recently captured the 2026 Holy Bull Stakes. Unlike Commandment, Nearly has more early speed, but his recent workouts have emphasized stamina and a strong finish.
Pletcher reports smooth, effortless breezes over Gulfstream’s main track, with 5-furlong moves in 1:00.60. Nearly finishes these gallops strongly without being pushed, a positive sign for stretching out to 1 1/8 miles.
His Holy Bull win proved he can handle an honest pace and accelerate late. Pletcher is confident that Nearly’s foundation work is paying off, with the colt mentally ready for the Florida Derby challenge. Patience is key: Nearly doesn’t need to be forced early, and his consistent, relaxed gallops suggest he’s sharp and focused.
Keep a close eye on how he responds to the early fractions—if he can press the pace without tiring, he could be very difficult to beat down the stretch.
Chief Wallabee
Chief Wallabee, runner-up in the Fountain of Youth and trained by Bill Mott, is coming into the Florida Derby in excellent shape. Recent work shows him breezing five-eighths in 1:02.80, moving fluidly with energy to spare.
Mott’s approach is to sharpen the colt tactically without overexertion. Chief Wallabee is versatile: he can press the pace, stalk the leaders, or sit just off the speed. This flexibility will be important if Commandment or other speed types contest the early fractions.
Inside the barn, Mott is emphasizing schooling with his rider, gate breaks, and positioning. The colt is physically stronger than he was in the Fountain of Youth, and a clean trip could make him a serious threat. With Mott’s proven record on the Derby trail, expect Chief Wallabee to be ready to make a bold statement.
The Puma
Finally, we have The Puma, who ran third in the Sam F. Davis and is being considered for the Florida Derby. As a lightly raced colt, the focus is on gradual development, fitness, and responsiveness.
Trainer Gustavo Delgado reports that The Puma is showing improved stride and stamina. His breezes aren’t as intense as the others, which is intentional—he’s being brought along carefully to ensure he’s sharp but not overtaxed for this first major test at this level and distance.
The team is monitoring his responsiveness in workouts after the Tampa Bay Derby, looking for comfort and efficiency in his gallops. If progress continues, The Puma could surprise, particularly if the pace favors closers. While he may not yet be at peak form, he’s worth watching as more horses enter the Florida Derby.
Early Takeaways
At this stage, here’s what stands out among the early Florida Derby contenders:
Commandment – sharp, versatile, and primed for a tactical race under Brad Cox.
Nearly – strong off the Holy Bull win, built for stamina and a late surge by Todd Pletcher.
Chief Wallabee – gaining strength and tactical polish with Bill Mott, adaptable in trip.
The Puma – lightly raced but developing steadily, could be a factor if the pace sets up for him.
All four are showing excellent form, but keep in mind it’s still early. As more entries join and final workouts are reported, the dynamics could change. The 2026 Florida Derby promises to be a compelling test of speed, stamina, and strategy—a must-watch prep on the road to the Kentucky Derby.
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