Churchill Downs and NYRA announce new six-race series for 2027

Churchill Downs Inc. and the New York Racing Association have revealed a partnership for a six-race series scheduled to start in 2027. The series will include the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, but excludes the Preakness Stakes, which has been questioned by industry insiders. Changes in training and race management have led to this exclusion, as recent Derby winners opted out of the Preakness. The Preakness will still be run at Pimlico, but plans to adjust its timing are under discussion. The series aims for a $5 million bonus at its conclusion and emphasizes a shift in the of horse racing's leading events.

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