Preakness 2026: The Road to the Triple Crown

Golden Tempo’s historic Kentucky Derby win has set the stage for the most anticipated Preakness in years. With the Triple Crown trail now open, all eyes are on the May 16 race at Laurel Park, where the 23-1 longshot could become the first horse since American Pharoah in 2015 to chase the Triple Crown.

Golden Tempo’s Odds and Next Steps Following his dramatic victory at Churchill Downs, Golden Tempo’s odds for the Preakness have been set at 1.80-1, according to recent reporting. The horse, trained by Cherie DeVaux—the first woman to win the Kentucky Derby—has been shipped back to Keeneland for rest and evaluation, with connections taking a cautious approach before committing to the Preakness. DeVaux has indicated that the decision is still under consideration, but the Preakness remains a strong possibility.

Preakness 2026: A New Venue, A Historic Opportunity This year’s Preakness will be held at Laurel Park in Maryland, marking the first time in history that the race is not at Pimlico Race Course, which is undergoing major redevelopment. The field is set to include up to 14 starters, with Golden Tempo as the clear focal point. If he runs, he will face a mix of top contenders, including Renegade, who finished second in the Derby and other high-profile entries vying for a spot in the Belmont Stakes.

The Triple Crown Trail: What’s at Stake Golden Tempo’s path to the Triple Crown is far from certain. The last horse to complete the series was American Pharoah in 2015, and the Belmont Stakes—known for its grueling 1.5-mile distance—has claimed many a Derby and Preakness winner. Still, Golden Tempo’s late-charging victory in the Derby has fueled optimism among his connections and fans alike.

Upcoming Decisions and Race Day The Preakness entry list will be finalized on Monday, May 11, with the race itself scheduled for Saturday, May 16. If Golden Tempo is entered, he will join a field that includes several other top performers from the Derby and other major races. The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, is set for June 28, 2026.

What Comes Next For now, the focus remains on Golden Tempo’s health and readiness. His connections are expected to make a decision in the coming days, with the Preakness offering a chance to rewrite history. If he runs, the race will be a pivotal moment in horse racing, not just for the Triple Crown chase, but for the sport as a whole.

Golden Tempo’s journey from a 23-1 longshot to Kentucky Derby winner has captivated the sport, and the Preakness now stands as the next critical chapter. With the Triple Crown trail wide open, the stakes could not be higher.

For updates on Golden Tempo’s status and the Preakness field, stay tuned to the latest developments from the connections and official race organizers.