MSA Acquires Laurel Park for Statewide Training Center, Hosts 2026 Preakness

The Maryland Stadium Authority has reached an agreement to acquire Laurel Park from The Stronach Group and convert the property into a statewide thoroughbred training center. State officials framed the move as a cost-saving measure that preserves racing operations while limiting disruption for horsemen and staff across Maryland.

Under the plan, day-to-day training operations will be consolidated at Laurel Park, while Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore will shift to a ship-in model - horses and trainers will travel to Pimlico on race days rather than stabling there full time. Officials said the acquisition will save roughly $50 million by avoiding construction of hundreds of new stalls at Pimlico and by pursuing alternatives to a previously planned large event center at the downtown Baltimore track.

The Preakness Stakes will run at Laurel Park on May 16, 2026, marking the 151st running of Maryland’s signature race. State authorities expect the Preakness to return to a rebuilt Pimlico in 2027 once redevelopment work is complete. The Maryland Stadium Authority and the Maryland Jockey Club described the plan as a way to preserve Maryland racing operations and minimize disruption for trainers, backstretch workers, and other staff.

Laurel Park sits inside Prince George’s County and the purchase shifts some of the industry’s permanent footprint into the county. For the local economy that means more regular stable activity, increased employment opportunities for grooms, exercise riders, and support staff, and steadier business for feed suppliers, farriers, veterinarians, and nearby hospitality services. Holding the Preakness at Laurel will also bring a major one-day influx of visitors, media, and vendors to Laurel and surrounding neighborhoods, with implications for traffic, public safety planning, and short-term lodging demand.

At the same time, consolidation raises questions about land use, long-term infrastructure needs at Laurel Park, and coordination with county planning and public works. Residents and local officials will be watching for details on any upgrades to training facilities, waste management and environmental protections, and the timeline for site improvements tied to the transition.

This move follows state planning around Pimlico’s redevelopment and the recognized need to secure a viable training site while minimizing costly new construction. For Prince George’s County readers, the immediate takeaways are clear: Laurel will become the hub for Maryland training operations, the Preakness will come to town in May, and state agencies will next work through project specifics, permitting, and community coordination. Expect county meetings and public notices in the weeks ahead as the acquisition moves from announcement to implementation.