The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, the illustrious second jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown, takes center stage today at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. With post time set for 6:50 PM Eastern Time, racing enthusiasts and casual viewers alike are preparing for what promises to be a thrilling continuation of this year’s Triple Crown saga.
Broadcast Information and Viewing Options
NBC will provide comprehensive coverage of the 2025 Preakness Stakes, with the network’s main broadcast beginning at 5:00 PM ET. Pre-race coverage starts earlier on CNBC from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM ET, offering viewers in-depth analysis, paddock reports, and interviews with jockeys and trainers.
For those preferring digital platforms, the race will stream live on NBC Sports and the NBC Sports app, with additional streaming options available through Peacock. Subscribers to live TV streaming services including YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV can also tune in to the event.
The actual race – covering the traditional 1 3/16 miles (9.5 furlongs) – is scheduled to begin at 6:50 PM ET, though viewers are advised to tune in earlier for pre-race festivities and analysis.
Contenders and Key Storylines
This year’s Preakness field features 10 contenders, headlined by Kentucky Derby winner Midnight Thunder, trained by the legendary Bob Baffert who seeks a record-extending ninth Preakness victory. Jockey Juan Hernandez, who guided Midnight Thunder to victory at Churchill Downs two weeks ago, returns for the mount as they pursue the second leg of the Triple Crown.
Notable challengers include Derby runner-up Swift Current, trained by Todd Pletcher and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., along with Chad Brown’s promising colt Strategic Move, who bypassed the Kentucky Derby specifically to target the Preakness with jockey Jose Ortiz aboard.
“The shorter distance at Pimlico compared to Churchill Downs really suits Strategic Move’s running style,” Brown commented during yesterday’s press conference. “He’s shown tremendous speed in workouts this week, and we believe the configuration of this track plays to his strengths.”
Track Conditions and Weather Forecast
Current weather forecasts predict ideal racing conditions at Pimlico, with partly cloudy skies and temperatures around 72°F expected at post time. Track officials have rated the dirt surface as “fast” following yesterday’s maintenance work, though morning showers could slightly affect conditions.
Pimlico Race Course superintendent Carlos Martinez noted, “We’ve been working around the clock to ensure optimal track conditions. The surface is in excellent shape, and barring any unexpected heavy rainfall, we anticipate perfect racing conditions for the Preakness.”
Historical Context and Significance
The 2025 running marks the 150th edition of the Preakness Stakes, a milestone celebration for the historic race first contested in 1873. Pimlico Race Course, the second-oldest racetrack in the United States, has undergone significant renovations in preparation for this anniversary event, including upgraded facilities and enhanced spectator amenities.
Maryland Governor Anthony Brown will be in attendance, continuing the tradition of gubernatorial presence at the event. “The Preakness isn’t just a horse race – it’s a vital part of Maryland’s cultural heritage and economic landscape,” Governor Brown stated at yesterday’s pre-race gala.
This anniversary edition carries additional significance as it features enhanced purse money of $2 million, up from previous years, reflecting the event’s growing prominence in the racing calendar.
Economic Impact and Attendance Expectations
Baltimore officials anticipate approximately 150,000 spectators to attend the day’s events at Pimlico, generating an estimated $40 million in economic impact for the region. Local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and restaurant sectors, have prepared extensively for the influx of visitors.
Tom Noonan, President and CEO of Visit Baltimore, emphasized the event’s importance to the city: “The Preakness represents one of our city’s signature events. Hotels are at near capacity, restaurants are fully booked, and the entire city benefits from this prestigious racing tradition.”
Cultural Events and Traditions
The traditional painting of the winner’s colors on the weather vane atop the Pimlico cupola remains one of the event’s most cherished traditions. Additionally, the winner will be adorned with the customary blanket of Black-Eyed Susans, Maryland’s state flower.
This year’s “InfieldFest,” the renowned concert and celebration held within Pimlico’s infield during Preakness day, features performances by Grammy-winning artists and has attracted thousands of additional attendees beyond traditional racing fans.
Lauren Coleman, Pimlico’s Director of Events, highlighted the expanded entertainment offerings: “We’ve created an experience that appeals to multiple generations. The racing tradition appeals to longtime fans, while our entertainment lineup attracts younger demographics who might be experiencing their first Preakness.”
Betting Outlook and Odds
Early wagering has established Midnight Thunder as the morning line favorite at 5-2 odds, with Swift Current at 3-1 and Strategic Move at 4-1. Longshot Blue Horizon, at 25-1, has attracted significant attention following impressive morning workouts.
Industry analysts predict record betting handle for this year’s race, potentially exceeding $100 million across all wagering platforms. The introduction of expanded mobile betting options has contributed significantly to increased interest in this year’s Triple Crown races.
As post time approaches, racing enthusiasts and casual fans alike prepare to witness another chapter in American racing history unfold at Pimlico Race Course. Whether watching for the thrill of the sport, the potential continuation of a Triple Crown campaign, or simply to participate in one of America’s oldest sporting traditions, the 150th Preakness Stakes promises moments that will be discussed long after the winner crosses the finish line.
