The Preakness Stakes is set to break tradition in 2027, moving from its usual third Saturday in May to Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. This marks the first instance of any Triple Crown race occurring on a Sunday.

The announcement came from Maryland Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club, aiming to attract a stronger field for this second leg of horse racing's Triple Crown. This change responds to a trend where trainers have increasingly opted out of entering their horses in the Preakness just two weeks post-Kentucky Derby. For instance, in 2026, no horses that ran in the Derby participated in the Preakness.

Bill Knauf, CEO of the Maryland Jockey Club, stated, "We believe the Preakness and the entire Triple Crown series are positioned for growth and great success. This extra week between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness opens the Preakness to potential participants who use modern training methods."

Since 2022, only 13 out of 95 horses that participated in the Kentucky Derby also ran in the Preakness. This scheduling shift coincides with a new TV rights extension with NBC, securing broadcasts of the Preakness through 2032. The absence of Derby horses has diminished excitement around the event, as the pursuit of the Triple Crown captivates casual fans.

However, the 2027 Preakness will face competition from the Belmont Stakes, which is scheduled just 13 days later. This timing may force trainers to choose between the two races, especially considering last year had no Derby participants in the Preakness. The pressure now shifts to the Belmont Stakes to either adapt or risk a diluted field.

The 2027 Preakness Stakes will return to a partially-open Pimlico Race Course after being held at Laurel Park in 2026 due to ongoing renovations. The $500 million renovation is expected to be fully completed ahead of the 2028 Preakness.