From the Maryland Jockey Club Media Team / Dan Illman:

TMJC Statement on CDI’s Acquisition of Preakness Intellectual Property

Preakness Stakes to be held at Pimlico beginning in 2027


LAUREL, MD—The Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA), in partnership with the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) and The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC), is overseeing the transformation of Pimlico Race Course, home of the Preakness Stakes, into a year-round racing facility, and acquiring Laurel Park to serve as the training center. These multi-year investments in Maryland horse racing will deliver economic benefits to the state for many years to come and ensure the stable future of Maryland racing.

The State of Maryland has been notified by 1/ST Maryland LLC/The Stronach Group that they have reached a tentative agreement to transfer the intellectual property for the Preakness Stakes to Churchill Downs. That announcement of that intended transfer does not affect TMJC’s right to full operational control and responsibility for the Black-Eyed Susan and Preakness Stakes, both of which will be held at Pimlico Race Course beginning in 2027.

TMJC also controls the media rights and licensing for the Preakness Stakes, as identified in the Master Agreement between the State of Maryland and 1/ST Maryland LLC, dated June 28, 2024. None of that is affected by the potential Churchill Downs transaction.

TMJC retains full control of the racing calendar and day-to-day operations for Maryland racing at both Laurel Park and the soon-to-be-rebuilt Pimlico Race Course.

About The Maryland Jockey Club
The Maryland Jockey Club, founded in 1743, is the oldest sporting association in the United States and conducts live thoroughbred racing at Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course. For more information on The Maryland Jockey Club, please contact Dan Illman at Dan.Illman@marylandracing.com. Past press releases are available here.