2026 Preakness Stakes: What to Know About the Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown

The Preakness won’t see a continued pursuit of the Triple Crown, but a shift in venue away from Pimlico Race Course is one of many reasons to still tune in.

The front stretch, finish line, and winners circle prior to the 151st Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, on May 13, 2026. Patrick Smith/Getty Images

This weekend features the PGA Championship, NASCAR’s All-Star Race, NBA and NHL playoff games, and Ronda Rousey’s return to the octagon. But perhaps the most anticipated event is the Preakness Stakes, the Middle Jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown, which takes place Saturday and will look a bit different this year.

With usual host site Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore undergoing a $400 million renovation, the Preakness is being held roughly 30 miles away at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland. It’s the first time since 1907 that the Preakness won’t be run at Pimlico, though it’s slated to return there next year.