The 2026 Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, and not just because Golden Tempo is out of the field. This year's race marks a historic shift as it moves to Laurel Park in Laurel, Md., on Saturday, May 16—the first time since 1909 that the Preakness won't be held at Pimlico Race Course, which is undergoing a massive $400 million redevelopment. With the change of venue comes fresh excitement, and all eyes are on Crude Velocity, the 4-1 morning-line favorite.
Trained by the legendary Bob Baffert—an eight-time Preakness winner—Crude Velocity leads a competitive pack. Other early contenders to watch include Iron Honor at 19-1, Taj Mahal at 20-1, Cherokee Nation at 22-1, and Silent Tactic and Chip Honcho, both at 25-1. But with odds like these, the real question is: which horse will cross the finish line first?
For expert insight, look no further than SportsLine's Jody Demling, a horse racing veteran who has called 11 of the last 21 Preakness winners. His track record is impressive: he nailed the top three finishers in the 2025 Kentucky Derby in exact order, hit the winner, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta in the 2023 Preakness, and correctly picked Journalism as the 2025 Preakness champion. If you've been following his picks, you know he's a reliable source for winning bets.
One of Demling's most intriguing predictions for 2026 is Taj Mahal, a double-digit longshot at 20-1. Despite the longer odds, this Brittany Russell-trained horse has a lot going for him. Taj Mahal is undefeated in his first three races, including a standout win at Laurel Park's MSW on Feb. 6 and a gritty performance on a muddy track at the 2026 Mi. Plus, he's the son of Nyquist, who won the 2016 Kentucky Derby and placed third in that year's Preakness. That pedigree and early form make him a dark horse worth keeping an eye on.
Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, the 2026 Preakness Stakes promises drama, history, and plenty of action. For Demling's full picks, including his best bets and predictions, head over to SportsLine. And if you're looking to gear up for race day, don't forget to check out our latest collection of horse racing-inspired apparel—perfect for cheering on your favorite horse in style.