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Preakness Moves to Laurel; Golden Tempo Out, Baffert Empty

5/16/2026

33 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 Preakness Stakes will be run at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, after renovations force a move from Pimlico.
Golden Tempo is withdrawn, leaving the Triple Crown out of reach.
Iron Honor opens as the 9-2 favorite; Chip Honcho, Incredibolt and Taj Mahal are 5-1, Ocelli is 6-1.
Trainer Bob Baffert will have no starter in the Preakness for the first time since 2022.

History

Historical Context

Since its 1873 debut at Baltimore’s Pimlico, the Preakness has shifted venues during crises—from New York tracks in the 1890s to an October 2020 race without spectators. A 2024 bill authorized $375 million for a grandstand, prompting the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority to move the 151st running to Laurel Park in May 2026. Trainer Bob Baffert entered no horse, and Derby winner Golden Tempo withdrew.

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Story summary

The 2026 Preakness Stakes will be run at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, after renovations force a move from Pimlico.
Golden Tempo is withdrawn, leaving the Triple Crown out of reach.
Iron Honor opens as the 9-2 favorite; Chip Honcho, Incredibolt and Taj Mahal are 5-1, Ocelli is 6-1.
Trainer Bob Baffert will have no starter in the Preakness for the first time since 2022.

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