The Triple Crown is taking an unexpected turn in 2026, and it's shaking up everything we know about horse racing's most storied series. For the first time in its 153-year history, the Preakness Stakes is leaving its iconic home at Pimlico Race Course. Instead, the Middle Jewel will run at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland—just 30 miles down the road, but a world away in tradition.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 16, with post time set for 6:50 p.m. ET. The field is shaping up to be a thriller, with Iron Honor leading the pack as the 9-2 favorite. But don't sleep on the contenders breathing down his neck: Incredibolt, Chip Honcho, and Taj Mahal are all sitting at 5-1 odds, ready to make their move. With so much talent on the track, every bettor needs a game plan.

Here's a fun piece of history to keep in mind: the Preakness has been the Triple Crown's middle race only since 1932. Before that, the order was a free-for-all. Believe it or not, the Preakness actually ran before the Kentucky Derby from 1920 to 1931. And in 1917 and 1922, both races were held on the exact same day. The only other time the Preakness strayed from its traditional May slot was in 2020, when COVID-19 pushed it to October.

So, how do you pick the right horses for your exacta, trifecta, or superfecta bets in a race with this much history and change? That's where expert insight comes in. Jody Demling, a seasoned horse racing analyst who has been studying, writing, and betting on these races for years, has a proven track record. He nailed the top three finishers in the 2025 Kentucky Derby in perfect order and has correctly called 11 of the last 21 Preakness winners—including a winning pick in 2023.

Whether you're a seasoned handicapper or just getting into the sport, having a trusted guide can make all the difference. The 2026 Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be a race for the history books, and with the right strategy, you could be celebrating in the winner's circle too.