Veteran jockey Robby Albarado, two-time Preakness winner, dies at 52

Robby Albarado, a prominent jockey with a career spanning over 34,000 races and earnings exceeding $221 million, died at 52. He earned two Preakness victories, notably aboard Curlin in 2007 and Swiss Skydiver in 2020, and added multiple Breeders’ Cup wins to his résumé. In the weeks before his death, Albarado underwent a procedure to place a stent for a heart blockage, according to trainer Kenny McPeek, who employed him as an exercise rider after his 2022 retirement.

Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, confirmed his passing after being alerted by family and friends, and its president Mike Anderson offered condolences to Albarado’s relatives and colleagues. The jockey began his riding career on Louisiana bush tracks before turning professional. His contributions to the sport were celebrated by peers and the racing community alike.