NBC retains rights to Preakness Stakes after 'hard-fought bidding war'
Awful Announcing • • sports
Key Points:
- The Preakness Stakes will remain on NBC for at least the next year, with the deal set to be announced during a press conference with Maryland Governor Wes Moore.
- NBC will continue broadcasting the first two legs of the Triple Crown, with rights to the Kentucky Derby through 2032, while Fox holds rights to the Belmont Stakes through 2030.
- Churchill Downs Incorporated acquired the Preakness Stakes and associated races at Pimlico Race Course for $85 million, highlighting a significant investment in the event.
- The Preakness has faced declining viewership and participation as Derby horses increasingly skip the race due to tight scheduling, prompting discussions about shifting the Preakness back by one week.
- A potential schedule change could improve participation and viewership, addressing concerns from fans and media executives about the current timing conflicts within the Triple Crown series.
