Governor Wes Moore and the State of Maryland exercised our right of first refusal and permanently secured the intellectual property of the Preakness Stakes — the second jewel of the Triple Crown — for the people of this state.
Not leased. Not licensed. Owned. And we did it without spending a single dollar of taxpayer money.
153 years in Maryland. Now Maryland's, in perpetuity.
We have permanently secured one of Maryland's most treasured cultural assets for the people of this state. Not leased. Not licensed. Owned — by the people of Maryland.
Old Bay and steamed crabs. The black-eyed Susan. The Chesapeake Bay. The best state flag in the nation. The Preakness is as much a part of Maryland's identity as any of these things — and now it belongs to us, in writing, in perpetuity.
This victory would not have happened without Governor Wes Moore's vision, resolve, and leadership. He saw what was at stake — and chose to fight for Maryland. Not for headlines. For the people.
Bipartisan leaders, industry voices, and Marylanders agree — Governor Moore got this done without spending a single taxpayer dollar.
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Governor Moore's decision to acquire the Preakness intellectual property ensures that Maryland will shape the future of horse racing in our state, protect the Preakness, and support the communities surrounding Pimlico. Given the financial terms of the current license agreement with 1/ST Racing, acquiring the intellectual property is the more fiscally responsible option, ensuring that the state owns this historic asset rather than leasing it indefinitely.
I want to thank Governor Moore for getting the purchase of the Preakness intellectual property across the finish line. This acquisition was completed without using taxpayer dollars.
I commend Governor Moore on securing Maryland's rights to the Preakness. This visionary move will help preserve an important Maryland industry and highlight one of Baltimore's best events. Over the course of my life as a Marylander, no Governor and First Lady have been such ardent supporters of our industry as Dawn and Wes Moore.
This is great news for the Maryland horse industry. Governor Moore has been such a strong supporter, and this will secure the future of the Preakness and the horse industry.
The Preakness is more than a horse race. It is one of Maryland's most iconic brands, one of its most important cultural assets, and one of the State's strongest opportunities for long-term economic growth. The Greater Baltimore Committee applauds Governor Wes Moore for his thoughtful leadership.
Governor Moore's leadership helps ensure that future generations of horsemen, fans, and Maryland families will continue to celebrate the Preakness where it belongs, right here in Maryland.
This is a defining moment for Maryland racing. We look forward to working alongside Governor Moore and the State of Maryland to build a stronger future for our industry and ensure the Preakness remains in Baltimore permanently.
This decision protects one of Maryland's most valuable assets. We appreciate Governor Moore's willingness to take a thoughtful, forward-looking approach that strengthens Maryland racing and safeguards the future of the Preakness for decades to come.
Governor Moore recognized a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure permanent ownership of one of Maryland's most important cultural and economic assets. We are grateful for his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our state.
In keeping with Governor Moore's vision, the Maryland Jockey Club is ready to further elevate the Preakness into a world-class, bucket-list event for Marylanders and racing fans worldwide.
The Governor has made a positive and important decision for Maryland racing. It was critical to reunite the Preakness with the intellectual rights to the race.
Maryland racing is now positioned to control its own destiny and Governor Moore deserves the utmost credit for positioning the industry and the Preakness for success by taking this decisive action. It just makes sense and the future is bright.
Governor Moore's decision provides greater clarity to move from debate to delivery. Park Heights Renaissance is excited to continue working with state, local, and industry partners to ensure this historic investment generates lasting benefits for residents through jobs, business opportunities, and community reinvestment.
Governor Moore's decision reflects thoughtful leadership, a rigorous review of the facts, meaningful stakeholder engagement, and a clear commitment to Maryland's long-term interests. Today's action ensures that one of Maryland's most treasured traditions will remain a Maryland institution for generations to come.
If Maryland had let an out-of-state company own the rights, we would have paid that company roughly $440 million over 45 years just to keep the Preakness running at Pimlico. Instead, racing revenues — not taxpayers — will pay roughly $188 million in principal and financing over 30 years. After that, we never pay another dime to anyone for the right to run our race.
The race is permanently anchored to Baltimore. Maryland controls its own destiny.
Perpetual license fees to outside owners. Escalating costs. No long-term control.
in annual economic impact from Maryland's thoroughbred industry — protected.
already invested in rebuilding Pimlico — a long-term commitment to Park Heights and Baltimore.
New York State owns the Belmont Stakes IP. Maryland now stands in the same position with the Preakness.
Maryland has a painful history with promises from outside interests that evaporated when the balance sheet demanded it. The Colts left in the middle of the night. This moment was just as consequential — and Governor Moore and the state chose to act decisively. The Preakness belongs to us.
Maryland First. The Preakness is Ours.