Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

2027 Six-Race Series Launches Without Preakness, $5M Prize

8/4/2026

38 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Racing Alliances Launch

Churchill Downs Inc. and the New York Racing Association announced a six-race series for three-year-olds starting in 2027.
The series opens with the Kentucky Derby on May 1, 2027, includes the Belmont Stakes on June 5, and ends with a championship race at Churchill Downs, omitting the Preakness Stakes.
A points system will rank horses for a $5 million prize pool.
Bill Carstanjen and David O’Rourke will jointly oversee rules, marketing and wagering.

Summary

Maryland Matches Offer

Maryland matched an $85 million offer for the Preakness rights, which Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey condemned as placing taxpayers at financial risk.
Governor Wes Moore defended the purchase, calling it a vital asset that lets Maryland shape its horseracing destiny with industry partners.
Trainer Bob Baffert said the Preakness is integral to racing history and he will run in Baltimore if he has a suitable horse.

History

Historical Context

After Churchill Downs introduced a $1 million Kentucky Derby purse in 1996 and lifted it to $3 million by 2019, public-private investment reshaped the sport, exemplified by Maryland’s role as Preakness host. Today, Churchill Downs Inc. and the New York Racing Association launch a $5 million six-race series that excludes the Preakness, reflecting the long-standing trend toward commercial partnerships.

1 of 3

Racing Alliances Launch

Churchill Downs Inc. and the New York Racing Association announced a six-race series for three-year-olds starting in 2027.
The series opens with the Kentucky Derby on May 1, 2027, includes the Belmont Stakes on June 5, and ends with a championship race at Churchill Downs, omitting the Preakness Stakes.
A points system will rank horses for a $5 million prize pool.
Bill Carstanjen and David O’Rourke will jointly oversee rules, marketing and wagering.

1 / 3