What's Happening?
The Preakness Stakes, a key event in the Triple Crown of horse racing, will be held on a Sunday for the first time in 2027. This change is part of a new broadcasting agreement with NBC, announced by Maryland
Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club. The decision comes after the Preakness was excluded from a new six-race series created by Churchill Downs Inc. and the New York Racing Association, which aims to determine the nation's top 3-year-old racehorse. The Preakness will now take place three weeks after the Kentucky Derby, in an effort to encourage more horses to compete for the Triple Crown. The series will include the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and other races, with NBC and FOX sharing broadcasting rights.
Why It's Important?
This scheduling change is significant as it reflects a shift in the traditional horse racing calendar, potentially impacting the prestige and participation in the Triple Crown series. By moving the Preakness to a Sunday, organizers hope to attract more competitors, addressing concerns about the physical demands on horses. The new broadcasting deal with NBC ensures continued media coverage, which is crucial for maintaining the event's visibility and financial viability. The exclusion of the Preakness from the new championship series highlights ongoing debates about the future of horse racing and the need for innovation to sustain interest in the sport.
What's Next?
The Preakness will return to a renovated Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore in 2027, with the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes also shifting to a new schedule. The Maryland Jockey Club's agreement with NBC runs through 2032, ensuring long-term media coverage. As the new series debuts, stakeholders will monitor its impact on the traditional Triple Crown races. The Maryland government and racing organizations will likely continue discussions to ensure the Preakness remains a vital part of the horse racing calendar.
