2026 Federico Tesio Stakes Results

Exotic Payouts:

• $1.00 Exacta (10-4) Paid: $12.50
• $1.00 Trifecta (10-4-5) Paid: $45.70
• $1.00 Superfecta (10-4-5-2) Paid: $243.90

Watch the 2026 Federico Tesio Stakes

History of the Federico Tesio Stakes

The Federico Tesio Stakes was first run in 1981 at Laurel Park and is named in honor of legendary Italian breeder Federico Tesio, whose influence on Thoroughbred racing extended worldwide through champions such as Ribot and Nearco. From its inception, the race was designed as a spring stepping stone for developing three year olds and quickly became an important fixture on the Mid-Atlantic racing calendar.

Traditionally contested at 1 1/8 miles on dirt, the Tesio has long served as a prep race for horses aiming toward the Triple Crown trail, particularly the Preakness Stakes. Its timing in April gives trainers an opportunity to test stamina and class against stakes company before moving on to larger national events. Over the years, the race has produced a number of notable runners who later competed successfully in Triple Crown races and other major stakes.

A significant evolution came in the modern era when the Federico Tesio Stakes became part of the “Win and In” series for the Preakness Stakes. Under this format, the winner receives an automatic berth into the Preakness, provided the horse is nominated to the Triple Crown. This enhancement elevated the race’s profile nationally and strengthened the quality of its fields, making it a more prominent stop on the spring racing calendar.

The Federico Tesio Stakes has also been notable for producing compelling performances from both local and nationally based stables. Horses such as Catholic Boy used the race as part of successful careers at the graded stakes level, helping reinforce the Tesio’s reputation as a proving ground for late-developing talent. Today, the race remains one of the most important spring stakes events in Maryland outside of the Preakness meet itself and continues to offer fans and bettors an important preview of emerging three year old contenders.

All Time Results of Federico Tesio Stakes