For 150 years, the third Saturday in May has been synonymous with one iconic event in the horse racing world: the Preakness Stakes. As the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, the Preakness has solidified its place in American sports history, drawing thousands of fans, trainers, and bettors to Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. However, 2025 marks a bittersweet milestone for this legendary event, as it may be the final Preakness at the current Pimlico before the historic racetrack is demolished and rebuilt. In this blog post, we dive into why this decision was made, what fans and insiders think about it, and what the future holds for the Preakness Stakes and Pimlico Race Course.
A Historic Racetrack in Decline
Pimlico Race Course, the second-oldest racetrack in America, has been the proud home of the Preakness since 1873. Known for its rich history and thrilling races, Pimlico has hosted countless legendary moments, including Journalism’s victory in the 150th Preakness Stakes in 2025. However, despite its storied legacy, the current state of Pimlico has left much to be desired.
Visitors to the 2025 Preakness Stakes didn’t hold back when asked about the condition of the racetrack. “It’s in very bad condition,” said Marta Montenegro, who traveled from Miami with her husband for their first Preakness after attending the Kentucky Derby seven times. “It’s a dump.” Her blunt assessment echoes a growing sentiment among attendees: Pimlico is no longer the grand venue it once was.
The facility’s issues are not just cosmetic. Jessica Lindsay, an assistant trainer with John Robb Racing, highlighted practical concerns. “It will be nice to have bathrooms that don’t flood and a roof that does not leak,” she said. “You know that saying, ‘don’t fix it if it ain’t broke,’ but it’s broke.” From leaking roofs to outdated infrastructure, Pimlico’s deterioration has become impossible to ignore, prompting plans for a major overhaul.
Why Rebuild Pimlico?
The decision to demolish and rebuild Pimlico Race Course stems from years of neglect and underinvestment. While the racetrack holds immense historical value, its aging facilities have struggled to meet modern standards for safety, comfort, and hospitality. The planned reconstruction aims to modernize Pimlico, ensuring it remains a premier destination for horse racing fans and a worthy host for the Preakness Stakes.
The rebuild is part of a broader effort to revitalize Baltimore’s horse racing industry, which has faced challenges in recent years. A new Pimlico could attract larger crowds, boost tourism, and create economic opportunities for the city. However, the transition won’t be seamless. The demolition means the Preakness may temporarily move to another venue, such as Laurel Park, while construction is underway. This shift has sparked mixed reactions among fans, trainers, and stakeholders.
Mixed Reactions to the Changes
While many agree that Pimlico is in dire need of repair, not everyone is on board with the demolition and rebuild. Some attendees at the 2025 Preakness Stakes expressed nostalgia for the current venue, flaws and all. Among those with reservations is part of the ownership team and breeder of Journalism, the horse that clinched victory in the 150th Preakness Stakes. For them, Pimlico’s imperfections are part of its charm, a living testament to its 150-year legacy.
On the other hand, practical concerns outweigh sentimentality for many. Fans like Montenegro and professionals like Lindsay see the rebuild as a necessary step to preserve the Preakness Stakes’ prestige. Modern facilities could enhance the fan experience, improve safety for horses and jockeys, and ensure the event remains competitive with other major horse racing events like the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.
What’s Next for the Preakness Stakes?
As Pimlico prepares for its transformation, the future of the Preakness Stakes is both exciting and uncertain. The temporary relocation of the event during construction raises questions about how the move will affect attendance, atmosphere, and tradition. However, the promise of a state-of-the-art Pimlico Race Course offers hope that the Preakness will return stronger than ever.
The rebuild is expected to address long-standing issues, from upgrading infrastructure to enhancing amenities for fans and participants. A revitalized Pimlico could also attract new sponsors and partnerships, ensuring the financial sustainability of the Preakness Stakes for generations to come.
A Legacy Worth Preserving
The 2025 Preakness Stakes may be the last ride at the current Pimlico Race Course, but it’s far from the end of the road for this iconic event. The decision to demolish and rebuild Pimlico reflects a commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future. For 150 years, the Preakness has captivated the horse racing world, and with a modernized venue, it’s poised to continue that legacy for another century.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Triple Crown, a casual attendee, or someone new to the world of horse racing, the Preakness Stakes remains a must-see event. As we bid farewell to the current Pimlico, we look forward to a new chapter in its storied history—one that promises to deliver thrilling races, unforgettable moments, and a venue worthy of the middle jewel.
What are your thoughts on the Pimlico rebuild? Have you attended the Preakness Stakes or another Triple Crown event? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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