For 150 years, the Preakness Stakes has been synonymous with Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore—but in 2026, history takes a temporary detour. Due to a massive $400 million renovation project, the second jewel of horse racing's Triple Crown is packing its bags for a new venue, just for one year.

This shift follows a recent trend in the sport. The Belmont Stakes, another Triple Crown staple, underwent its own location changes starting in 2024 due to renovations at Belmont Park. Now, Churchill Downs stands alone as the only original Triple Crown venue that has hosted its race for over 150 consecutive years. In a sport where tradition runs deep, the Kentucky Derby remains a rock of consistency.

So, where will the 2026 Preakness Stakes be held? The answer is Laurel Park, located in Laurel, Maryland. Situated about 28 miles southwest of Pimlico, this track sits conveniently halfway between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.—just a 45-minute drive from the historic home. It's a local move, keeping the race close to its roots while the major construction unfolds.

The good news for purists? This change is strictly temporary. Laurel Park will serve as a one-year replacement, with Pimlico Race Course expected to reopen in time for the 2027 Preakness Stakes. Demolition began in July 2025, just months after the last race, and the new-look Pimlico promises to be a modern marvel. With over $400 million invested, the historic track is getting a complete transformation—upgraded facilities, improved sightlines, and a fresh atmosphere that honors its legacy while embracing the future.

For fans planning to attend the 2026 Preakness, this is a chance to experience the race in a new setting, all while knowing that the tradition will return home soon. It's a reminder that even the most storied events can evolve, and sometimes, a temporary change makes the homecoming even sweeter.