The 2026 Preakness Stakes is set for Saturday at 7:01 p.m. ET, and for the first time in modern history, the race will not be held at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Instead, the $2 million Grade I event moves to Laurel Park in Laurel, Md., while Pimlico undergoes renovations. Adding to the drama, Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo will skip the Preakness to target the Belmont Stakes on June 6, leaving the field wide open for a new star to emerge.
The 1 3/16-mile test features a competitive lineup, with Iron Honor (9-2) leading as the morning-line favorite. Close behind are Chip Honcho (5-1), Incredibolt (5-1), and Taj Mahal (5-1), followed by Ocelli (6-1) and Napoleon Solo (8-1). With no clear standout, this year's race promises plenty of betting value—especially for those following expert insights.
SportsLine's Jody Demling, a trusted voice in horse racing, has an incredible track record at the Preakness. He has correctly called 11 of the last 21 winners, including a perfect exacta, trifecta, and superfecta hit in 2023, and nailed Journalism as the 2025 champion. He also hit the top three finishers in the 2025 Kentucky Derby in exact order. For 2026, Demling is sharing his full betting picks and predictions, including a surprising take on one of the favorites.
Demling's biggest surprise? He has Taj Mahal outside his top five projected finishers, despite the horse being tied for second-lowest odds at 5-1. Taj Mahal is a perfect 3-for-3 lifetime, all at Laurel Park, which explains the buzz around him. However, Demling questions the level of competition he has faced compared to Derby trail horses, suggesting his undefeated record may not hold up against this deeper field.
For bettors looking to get in on the action, the latest DK Horse promo code offers a chance to win a share of $151,000 with just a $5 wager on the winning horse. Whether you're backing the favorite Iron Honor or eyeing a longshot like Incredibolt, Demling's analysis provides the edge you need for the 2026 Preakness Stakes.