Preakness Stakes 2026: Can Thunderstride Upset the Derby Champ?

The Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course, Baltimore, Maryland which will take place on May 17 2026 will feature a direct competition between Bluegrass Glory and Thunderstride. The Derby champion leads as the top contender yet Thunderstride possesses tactical speed which presents a major threat to him.

The main event shows Bluegrass Glory’s final sprint competing against Thunderstride’s initial running speed. The current betting odds show Bluegrass Glory at +250 Thunderstride at +350 and the field at odds between +600 and +1200. Sharp bettors are targeting Thunderstride as a value bet because they believe his running pace will improve his betting value.

Best Bet: The Thunderstride horse will finish in the top three at Bovada because his odds for this outcome stand at +350. His consistent performance makes him a strong candidate to achieve a top two finish.

The Preakness race functions as a critical test because it determines which horses maintain their chances to win the Triple Crown. The Thunderstride challenge guarantees that this race will deliver its most exciting moments.