The 151st Preakness Stakes Is in Maryland This Weekend. Here's What You Can Expect.
The $2 million race will draw just 4,800 fans as Laurel Park hosts the Preakness for the first time during Pimlico renovations.
- On Saturday, May 16, the 151st Preakness Stakes will run at Laurel Park in Maryland for the first time, relocating from its historic home at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore due to major renovations.
- Over $400 million has been invested in Pimlico's redevelopment, with demolition beginning in July after last year's race; the construction follows similar projects at Belmont Park, which began renovations in 2024.
- Laurel Park has only 4,800 seats compared to the 50,000 fans typically attending at Pimlico, forcing a dramatic capacity reduction; nearly all tickets have sold out for both the Preakness and Black-Eyed Susan races.
- Fritz Widaman, senior vice president of marketing for the Maryland Jockey Club, stated the winner will retain official 2026 Preakness status, with the race expected to return to Pimlico in 2027 as construction continues.
- Churchill Downs remains the sole major racing venue with continuous event hosting for over 150 years; Pimlico's planned 2027 return continues a tradition established in 1873, with redevelopment aiming to create a year-round facility.
16 Articles
16 Articles
The Toronto Star
The Preakness at Laurel Park has a little bit of everything but the Kentucky Derby winner
Except for the Kentucky Derby winner going for the Triple Crown, the 151st running of the Preakness Stakes has a little bit of everything.
The Preakness is this weekend, but not at Pimlico Race Course
#tnvbNcaMHUrl {margin-bottom: 10px;padding: 20px 10px;background: #D30000;text-align: center;font-weight: bold;color: #fff;border-radius: 5px;}.exco_video_caption{margin-bottom: 1rem; margin-top:0; font-size: 14px; color: #272828; font-weight: 600; text-align: left;} This page contains a video which is being blocked by your ad blocker.In order to view the video you must disable your ad blocker.The Preakness is coming to Laurel Park this weekend …
Flatter Pod: Previewing a Laurel and hearty Preakness 2026
From Laurel Park in Maryland, this weekend’s Preakness Stakes at its unique 2026 location is the centerpiece of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Two-time Eclipse Award-winning turf writer John Scheinman pays his annual visit by way of an after-dinner interview from his hometown Baltimore. He talks about the changing landscape of Maryland racing as it moves to new caretakers and a reimagined Pimlico next year. He also talks about the past, present and…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 54% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
