The Maryland Stadium Authority has announced a preliminary deal to purchase Laurel Park from The Stronach Group, transforming the historic venue into a hub for horse training. This acquisition aims to save the state nearly $50 million amid efforts to revitalize Pimlico Race Course and strengthen the horse racing industry. The move preserves jobs and facilities while adapting to ongoing redevelopment projects.
The Maryland Stadium Authority revealed on Wednesday a tentative agreement to acquire Laurel Park, a 229-acre horse racing venue in Anne Arundel County that opened in 1911. Known for hosting Triple Crown winners and legendary performers, the park has been leased by the state from The Stronach Group since early 2025, as Pimlico Race Course undergoes extensive redevelopment.
Under a prior 2024 agreement, racing operations at Laurel Park were set to conclude at the end of the lease. However, this new deal shifts ownership to the state, which plans to reconstruct the site as a thoroughbred training facility. Funding will come from available project funds and revenue bonds, with the Maryland Jockey Club retaining oversight of daily operations.
The acquisition is projected to save Maryland nearly $26.3 million in construction costs for new stalls at Pimlico and $2.5 million in operating expenses for the Jockey Club. Laurel Park's 1,100 horse stalls will support around 500 jobs and maintain 1,000 parking spaces. During Pimlico's project, racing and training will consolidate at Laurel, including the 151st Preakness Stakes in May 2026—before the event returns to a revamped Pimlico in 2027.
This decision pivots from earlier plans to develop Shamrock Farm in Carroll County as a training hub, which would have required at least $100 million. Instead, local officials and industry leaders will explore using the farm for horse rescue or recreational purposes.
Pimlico's demolition began in June 2024, following the 150th Preakness Stakes, with completion expected by spring 2027. The reimagined course will host about 120 racing days annually and include a hotel, event space, restaurant, and other amenities, solidifying its role as Maryland's premier horse racing destination.
