Preakness Stakes Announces Major Schedule Changes in Bid to Boost Relevance

Baltimore, MD, August 5, 2026 —

The Preakness Stakes, one of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown events, is set to implement substantial schedule modifications in an effort to enhance its competitive standing and viewership. These changes come in the wake of the race’s exclusion from a newly announced six-race championship series.

Starting in the 2027 racing season, the Preakness Stakes, held annually in Baltimore, Maryland, will be shifted one week later on the calendar. The race will now take place three weeks after the Kentucky Derby, a departure from its traditional two-week interval. Officials hope this adjustment will encourage a greater number of top horses to participate, thereby increasing the race’s appeal to both spectators and media.

Furthermore, a historic change will occur beginning in 2025, when the Preakness Stakes will move to Sundays. This marks the first time in the race’s history that it will not be held on a Saturday. The broadcast will air on NBC in the late afternoon, aligning with broadcast strategies aimed at maximizing audience reach.

These strategic adjustments are part of a broader effort to solidify the Preakness Stakes’ position in the racing world and to amplify its economic contribution to the state of Maryland. An extended media partnership has also been finalized to support these initiatives. The exact details of the media partnership were not provided.

The decision to alter the race’s timing and day is a direct response to the evolving landscape of thoroughbred racing and the creation of new competitive series. By repositioning the Preakness, organizers aim to create a more compelling narrative and a more attractive event for all stakeholders involved.

Story summarized from the original created by Adam Thompson on www.cbsnews.com, see more information here.

Media gallery