The Triple Crown dream may be over for 2026, but the Preakness Stakes still carries all its prestige as the second jewel of horse racing's most famous series. And for the first time in over a century, this historic race is moving to a new home.
With renovations underway at Baltimore's Pimlico Race Course, the 2026 Preakness Stakes will be run at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland—about 30 miles southwest of its traditional venue. The race is expected to return to Pimlico next year, but for now, fans can look forward to an unforgettable day at a fresh track.
Known as the "Run for the Black-Eyed Susans," this Grade I stakes race is the shortest of the Triple Crown events at 1 3/16 miles—just one-sixteenth of a mile shorter than the Kentucky Derby. The purse stands at an impressive $2 million. Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo has opted out, instead setting sights on the Belmont Stakes on June 6.
The 2026 Preakness Stakes post time is set for 6:50 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 16. The morning line odds have Iron Honor as the 9-2 favorite, followed closely by a trio of 5-1 contenders: Chip Honcho, Incredibolt, and Taj Mahal. Other top contenders include Ocelli (6-1) and Napoleon Solo (8-1).
Before placing your bets, you'll want to check out the expert predictions from SportsLine's Michelle Yu. She's been on fire lately—starting 2025 by correctly backing Citizen Bull in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes, then nailing wins in the Saudi Cup (Forever Young), San Felipe Stakes (Journalism), Arkansas Derby (Sandman), and Churchill Downs Stakes (Mindframe). She also hit the exacta in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, and in August she cashed the Fierceness-Journalism exacta in the Pacific Classic. Most recently, in March 2026, she correctly predicted the Renegade-Silent Tactic-Taptastic trifecta in the Arkansas Derby.
One of Yu's biggest surprises this week? She's extremely high on Taj Mahal, who is a perfect 3 for 3 in his career at Laurel Park. Meanwhile, trainer Cherie DeVaux made history at the Kentucky Derby as the first woman to train a winner in that race—and now she's looking to add a Preakness victory to her resume.
With the post positions set and odds on the board, Yu has shared her full 2026 Preakness Stakes betting picks and predictions over at SportsLine. Whether you're a seasoned horse racing fan or just looking for some Derby Day fun, these insights could make all the difference.
Ready to place your bets? Don't forget to claim the latest DK Horse promo code to win a share of $151,000 when you wager $5 on the winning horse. It's shaping up to be a thrilling day at Laurel Park—don't miss it.