New Brand Identities Released for Pimlico Race Course and the Preakness Stakes

Governor Wes Moore, the Maryland Stadium Authority and The Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) today unveiled new brand identities for Pimlico Race Course and the Preakness Stakes, giving both a bold new look ahead of Preakness’ return to Pimlico in May 2027.

The new logos were designed to honor the history of Pimlico, the Preakness and the Black-Eyed Susan while looking ahead to the future of Maryland racing. The marks feature symbols instantly recognizable and beloved by Marylanders and racing fans alike: the state’s iconic flag, Pimlico’s weathervane and cupola, and the black-eyed Susan, bringing together more than 280 years of history and fierce state pride.

“As Maryland steps into an exciting new era of horseracing, we’re transforming our Pimlico and Preakness branding to represent our state’s equestrian community and pay tribute to the industry's rich history,” said Gov. Moore. “Through instantly recognizable and deeply meaningful symbols, we continue to leverage the race and course as cornerstones of Maryland’s culture and economy.”

“Preakness belongs to all Marylanders, and these new designs honor our past and reflect the pride and the limitless possibility we share in its future,” said First Lady Dawn Moore. “As we look toward its return to Pimlico, we have an opportunity to welcome more people into this cherished tradition—connecting the excitement of racing with the creativity, culture, and community spirit that make Maryland extraordinary.”

The work was led by CTP, a nationally recognized design firm with deep experience in horse racing, including work for the Breeders’ Cup. The nearly ten-month creative process began with collecting feedback and input from a wide range of stakeholders, including state and city officials, Thoroughbred owners and breeders, TMJC board members and staff, and Park Heights community advocates.

“These logos capture everything we love about Maryland racing,” said Bill Knauf, President and General Manager of TMJC. “They honor the traditions that built Pimlico and the Preakness, but they were made for what’s ahead, and they reflect the promise of this sport’s future right here in Maryland. This was a thorough, inclusive process that gave the racing community, our neighbors in Park Heights, and people across our state a real voice in the brand development.”

The new visual identities come at a transformational time for Maryland racing. In June, the state purchased the intellectual property rights to the Preakness Stakes, securing the future of the historic event in Maryland. Another critical development came in August, when TMJC renewed its media rights deal with NBC Sports and shifted the Preakness date back eight days to Sunday, May 23. The state also recently approved the purchase of Laurel Park, which will become Maryland’s permanent training center, while construction continues on a rebuilt Pimlico Race Course that will offer year-round racing, entertainment, and community-focused events.

“The new logos for the Preakness, Black Eyed Susan, and Pimlico place Maryland and Park Heights at the heart of their identities,” said Craig Thompson, Chairman of the Maryland Stadium Authority.“Maryland racing is built on a proud, storied legacy, and its next chapter will shine even brighter because its future belongs to all of us. The Maryland Stadium Authority is proud to help deliver a venue that honors Maryland’s racing heritage, and looks forward to welcoming the world to experience a transformed Preakness weekend at Pimlico next year.”

In 2024, the Maryland General Assembly authorized the Maryland Stadium Authority to issue $400 million in bonds to redevelop the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. The new facility will support over 500 jobs, and go from hosting approximately 15 racing days per year to becoming the permanent home of Maryland Thoroughbred racing with more than 100 racing days annually. As the centerpiece of Maryland’s Thoroughbred racing industry—which sustains more than 28,000 jobs and has generated approximately $3 billion in economic impact—the new Pimlico Race Course will be a year-round hub of economic activity for Park Heights, surrounding communities, and Baltimore City.

The State of Maryland has also prioritized investments in Park Heights through the ENOUGH Initiative, which has provided nearly $3 million to revitalization efforts led by Park Heights Renaissance. One of 27 ENOUGH communities, Park Heights is implementing evidence-backed initiatives to improve the wellbeing of young people, including revitalizing vacant homes, addressing food insecurity for residents, and strengthening educational resources for parents.

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