As the dust settles from the Kentucky Derby, the excitement shifts to the next leg of the Triple Crown: the Preakness Stakes. Scheduled for today, May 16, at approximately 6:50 p.m. ET, this prestigious race will take place at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, a temporary venue due to ongoing renovations at the traditional Pimlico Race Course. This is a significant adjustment for horse racing enthusiasts, as the Preakness has been a staple in Baltimore for over a century.
The absence of Kentucky Derby champion Golden Tempo is notable, as the horse has opted to prepare for the Belmont Stakes in early June instead. This decision has left the field open for other contenders, with Iron Honor currently emerging as the favorite, boasting odds of 9-2. Close behind are Taj Mahal, Chip Honcho, and Incredibolt, all vying for the top spot with odds of 5-1. The dynamic nature of horse racing means these odds can shift dramatically as the race approaches, influenced by factors such as horse health, weather conditions, and expert insights.
For viewers eager to catch the action, pre-race coverage kicks off on NBC and Peacock at 4:00 p.m. ET, allowing ample time to absorb the atmosphere leading up to the main event. If you’re looking for ways to watch the Preakness Stakes without a cable subscription, consider signing up for a live TV streaming service like DIRECTV, which offers a free five-day trial that includes NBC. Alternatively, Peacock provides an affordable subscription option, allowing users to stream the race after a free trial period.
The full field of horses for the 2026 Preakness is as follows, along with their respective odds:
1. Taj Mahal – 5-1
2. Ocelli – 6-1
3. Crupper – 30-1
4. Robusta – 30-1
5. Talkin – 20-1
6. Chip Honcho – 5-1
7. The Hell We Did – 15-1
8. Bull By The Horns – 30-1
9. Iron Honor – 9-2
10. Napoleon Solo – 8-1
11. Corona De Oro – 30-1
12. Incredibolt – 5-1
13. Great White – 15-1
14. Pretty Boy Miah – 15-1
These odds, sourced from Twin Spires Horse Racing, reflect the competitive landscape of the race and provide insight into which horses may be worth watching.
As the Preakness Stakes draws near, the thrill of the race promises to deliver not only a spectacle of speed and strategy but also a moment for fans to engage with the rich tradition of horse racing. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or a casual viewer, the Preakness offers a unique glimpse into the world of thoroughbred racing, where every second counts and history is often made in the blink of an eye.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
