Following a recent decision to exclude the Preakness Stakes from a new six-race Thoroughbred Championship Series, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore is scheduled to make a significant announcement regarding the state's horse racing future on Wednesday in Annapolis. The series, backed by Churchill Downs and the New York Racing Association, promises to highlight the best three-year-old thoroughbreds in the country. However, the Preakness, a key leg of the Triple Crown, has been omitted. During the announcement, Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club will likely respond to the new series and confirm the date of the 2027 Preakness Stakes.
The new championship series has triggered widespread concerns among Maryland leaders about the long-term future of horse racing in the state. The partnership between Churchill Downs and the New York Racing Association is creating a distinct competition. This competition excludes the Preakness, raising fears that the race may lose its status. This could also threaten the financial viability of the event. Officials are worried this could lead to a drop in attendance. They are also concerned about the negative effect on the state’s economic contributions from the event.
Exclusion Sparks Political Concerns
These fears are amplified by remarks from Maryland Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey. He warned that the exclusion of the Preakness from the new series could put the race at risk. With two of the three Triple Crown organizers working closely together, the absence of the Preakness Stakes is seen as a major disadvantage. Park Heights, a Baltimore neighborhood historically tied to the economic success of the Preakness, has also voiced concerns. They are worried about the potential impact of the new series on the local community.
Earlier this week, Maryland finalized an $85 million deal to take full ownership of the Preakness Stakes. According to Moore's office, the purchase was made possible through a tax-exempt revenue bond, meaning that no direct taxpayer dollars were used. However, Hershey and others remain uneasy, particularly about the financial stability of the race and the bond. He questioned whether the bond remains secure if the Preakness loses its prestige or fails to generate the expected revenue.
Pimlico Race Course, the historic home of the Preakness, is also in the spotlight due to a major redevelopment project. The track was temporarily relocated to Laurel Park in 2024 to accommodate a $400 million transformation. The redevelopment is part of a broader vision to make Pimlico the central hub for thoroughbred racing in Maryland. This includes expanded live racing days and new infrastructure. Examples of new infrastructure include a hotel and event space.
Pimlico's Transformation and Economic Impact
Beyond the racing facility itself, the project includes plans to foster economic growth in the Park Heights community, a key stakeholder in the Preakness' success. A local nonprofit, Park Heights Renaissance, stated that its board is currently evaluating how the new championship series might impact the area. In a statement, the group emphasized the importance of ensuring that local residents remain central to any decisions that affect the neighborhood and its economy.
New Racing Series Timeline and Structure
The new Thoroughbred Championship Series will begin in the summer of 2027 with the Matt Winn Stakes at Churchill Downs in July. This will be followed by the Jim Dandy Stakes and Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course, two of the most prestigious races in the horse racing calendar. The series will culminate with a championship race at Churchill Downs in September. The Breeders' Cup, traditionally a highlight of the racing year, will be held at Belmont Park later that fall.
Championship Series Schedule and Triple Crown Context
The Kentucky Derby, an essential opening leg of the Triple Crown, will be held on May 1, 2027. The Belmont Stakes will take place on June 5. The series is intended to run continuously through the spring and into the fall. However, the absence of the Preakness in the lineup has sparked debates over possible scheduling changes. One possible change is lengthening the gap between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness. This is to encourage more participation from Triple Crown hopefuls.
In recent years, the Kentucky Derby winner has skipped the Preakness in three out of five instances. This pattern has fueled the belief that the Preakness needs to attract more high-profile horses to remain competitive. The new series could further isolate the Preakness unless alternative arrangements are made to increase its appeal and relevance.