Maximum Security crossed the finish line first in the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs, but Country House was declared the winner after an objection was lodged by his jockey Flavien Prat.
The shocking turn of events is the first of its kind in the history of the Derby, leaving racing fans stunned and disappointed – particularly those who’d bet on the undefeated colt.
Though Maximum Security took an early lead and fought off his rivals to finish the race in a time of 2:03.93, a review of the action revealed that he drifted off the rail in the final bend, forcing his opponents wide. Following a lengthy stewards’ inquiry, Maximum Security was disqualified and Country House, whose odds were 65-1, was crowned the winner of the 2019 Kentucky Derby.