The 2026 Preakness Stakes is set for Saturday night, and while the Triple Crown dream may be off the table, the excitement at Laurel Park is bigger than ever. Here's everything you need to know to catch every stride of the action.
This year's race marks the 151st running of the Preakness, and it's shaping up to be a wide-open affair. Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo will not compete in the second leg of the Triple Crown, leaving the field of 14 horses—and their trainers—scrambling to adjust strategies for the demanding 1 3/16-mile sprint. Without a clear favorite, the stakes are sky-high for every contender looking to make history of their own.
The race will air live on NBC, with streaming options available on Peacock and DIRECTV. If you're looking to catch every moment, DIRECTV is offering a free trial that includes must-have sports channels like ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—perfect for fans who want to stay locked into the action without any commitments.
Post time is set for approximately 7:01 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 16. Note that this year's event moves to Laurel Park, as Pimlico Race Course undergoes renovations. Whether you're watching from home or gearing up in your favorite racing-inspired gear, this is one race you won't want to miss.
