The 2026 Preakness Stakes is set to take place at Laurel Park on Saturday, May 16, in Maryland. Traditionally held at Pimlico Race Course, also located in Maryland, the event has moved due to extensive renovations underway at the historic Old Hilltop.
This year marks the 151st Preakness Stakes, becoming a highlight of Maryland’s racing calendar. The day’s lineup includes a total of fourteen races, with nine of them being Stakes races, attracting top horses from across the nation to this renowned track on the East Coast. The Preakness has built a reputation as a grand celebration, combining thrilling races with lively festivities. However, this year’s race will notably miss Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo and runner-up Renegade, who have opted to focus on the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga. Only three contenders from the Derby—Ocelli, Incredibolt, and Robusta—are entered, leaving the field open for new challengers to seize the spotlight. A full roster of fourteen competitors will vie for the chance to carve their names into the annals of horse racing history. The day of excitement kicks off bright and early, with the first race scheduled for 10:30 am. Among the nine Stakes races, four will be contested on the turf. With a $2 million purse and significant prestige at stake, the 2026 Preakness is poised to be an exhilarating showcase of Thoroughbred racing.
Preakness Stakes The Biggest Party of the Year in Maryland Racing
NBC will provide television coverage of the 2026 Preakness. Starting at 1 pm Eastern time, viewers can tune in to Peacock and NBCSN for the preliminary events. As the main action unfolds at Laurel Park, NBC and Peacock will continue the broadcast from 4 pm Eastern. The Preakness itself, designated as race 13, is expected to commence at 7:01 pm Eastern. Telemundo will join the coverage from 6:30 pm Eastern, with streaming options available on Telemundo.com and the Telemundo app.
Incredibolt is one of three Kentucky Derby starters that will make the trek to Maryland for the Preakness Stakes
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Where To Watch Preakness 151
Television coverage of the 2026 Preakness will be featured on NBC. Race coverage will begin at 1 pm eastern for the undercard events and will be telecast on Peacock and NBCSN. Beginning at 4 pm eastern time, NBC and Peacock will broadcast the happenings at Laurel Park. Post time for the Preakness, which is carded as race 13, is slated for 7:01pm eastern. Telemundo will present coverage beginning at 6:30 pm eastern with streaming available at Telemundo.com and on the Telemundo app.
