Preakness Stakes

Publication date: 14 Aug 2025

About the Preakness Stakes

Preakness Stakes is one of the three premier horse races in the United States, annually bringing together the best three-year-old thoroughbreds and jockeys. Since 1873, the race has been held on the third Saturday of May at the legendary Pimlico Racecourse in Baltimore, Maryland. This event is the second leg of the U.S. Triple Crown, taking place two weeks after the Kentucky Derby. The race distance is 1.9 km (1 3/16 miles).

2026 Preakness Stakes

In 2026, the second race of the U.S. Triple Crown series — Preakness Stakes — will take place on Saturday, May 16. This year, the event will be held at Laurel Park, Maryland, due to a major renovation of the historic Pimlico track in Baltimore, which will continue through 2027.

Despite the temporary relocation, all key traditions of Preakness Stakes remain intact: the race distance stays at 1 3/16 miles, and the top three-year-old horses of the season will compete on the track once again. This will be the 151st running of the race, and interest is as high as ever, as it determines the potential Triple Crown contenders following the Kentucky Derby.

Laurel Park previously hosted Preakness Stakes in 2025 and will again serve as the temporary home for this prestigious race. Organizers promise thrilling competitions, a festive atmosphere, fan zones, and live entertainment. Even at a new venue, the race remains one of the most anticipated events in the American Thoroughbred racing calendar.

History of the horse races

Name Preakness Stаkes comes from horse Preakness, who won at Pimlico Racecourse in 19th century. First race took place in 1873 and has since become important part of American horse racing culture. Distance of 1,900 meters makes it shortest of all Triple Crown races, yet it remains no less intense and spectacular.

Inaugural Preakness Stakes featured only seven participants. Three-year-old horse John Chamberlain won race, taking home prize of $2,050 — a record that stood nearly until 2004.

Winning horse is traditionally draped in black blanket adorned with yellow flowers, and owner receives Woodlawn Vase, official trophy for Preakness Stakes winners since 1917, symbolizing prestige and history of American horse racing.

Previous horse races results

2027 Preakness Stakes

There is currently no word on the next Preakness Stakes, which is also tentatively scheduled for May 2027.

Official Preakness Stakes website

Keep an eye on the dates of horse races and other events in our Sports Events Calendar.