Story perspectives

Preakness Shifts to Laurel Park, Caps Attendance at 4,800

5/14/2026

Summary

Preakness Relocates

151st Preakness Stakes will be run at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, after renovations moved it from Pimlico.
Attendance is limited to 4,800 because of the venue change.
Morning-line odds list Iron Honor as the 9-2 favorite, with Taj Mahal, Chip Honcho and Incredibolt at 5-1.
The victor will receive the Woodlawn Vase, a trophy valued at $1 million in 1983, and a $151,000 share for a $5 wager.

Summary

Maryland Acquires Laurel

State officials announced that Maryland will acquire Laurel Park for $48.5 million to secure the venue after racing ends.
Legislators delayed the purchase decision by 45 days on May 7 to obtain additional information from the Maryland Stadium Authority.
Employees will retain office space at Laurel Park, allowing most staff to continue working on site.
The historic track will cease racetrack operations next year and will be converted into a horse-training facility.

History

Historical Context

Created in 1986, the Maryland Stadium Authority first spent $48 million renovating Pimlico and later funded Camden Yards. In 2024 the General Assembly approved a plan to move the Preakness to Laurel while the Authority negotiated a $48.5 million purchase of Laurel Park, a deal legislators postponed 45 days, continuing the state’s pattern of intervening in horse-racing venues.

1 of 3

Preakness Relocates

151st Preakness Stakes will be run at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, after renovations moved it from Pimlico.
Attendance is limited to 4,800 because of the venue change.
Morning-line odds list Iron Honor as the 9-2 favorite, with Taj Mahal, Chip Honcho and Incredibolt at 5-1.
The victor will receive the Woodlawn Vase, a trophy valued at $1 million in 1983, and a $151,000 share for a $5 wager.

1 / 3