The 2026 Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be one of the most wide-open installments in recent memory, with a massive 14-horse field set to charge down the stretch at Laurel Park for the second jewel of the Triple Crown. With Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo sitting this one out, all eyes turn to local hero Taj Mahal—an undefeated Maryland-bred looking to defend his home turf—and Iron Honor, the tepid 9/2 morning-line favorite.

Whether it's the maiden Ocelli trying to break a 138-year drought or the deep-closing Incredibolt looking to improve on his sixth-place Derby finish, Saturday's 1 3/16-mile sprint promises a chaotic scramble for the Black-Eyed Susans. Here's everything you need to know to catch all the action.

When is the Preakness Stakes?
The 2026 Preakness Stakes will go to post on Saturday, May 16, at approximately 7:01 p.m. ET. Because Pimlico Race Course is currently undergoing a $400 million redevelopment, the race has moved to Laurel Park race course for the year.

How to watch the Preakness Stakes
Horse racing fans can catch the second leg of the Triple Crown live on NBC. Mike Tirico will host the coverage, with Hall of Fame jockey Jerry Bailey and analyst Randy Moss providing expert commentary, while Larry Collmus delivers the race call.

For those looking to stream the event, Peacock has you covered with exclusive undercard coverage starting at 1:00 p.m. ET and the main race broadcast beginning at 4:00 p.m. ET. Fans can also stream it on DIRECTV.

Post positions and morning-line odds
Here's a look at the post positions for the 2026 Preakness Stakes along with the morning-line odds. With a full field of 14 horses and no clear superstar, this year's race is a bettor's paradise—and a fan's delight.