Maryland Faces Scrutiny Over Preakness Stakes Intellectual Property Sale to Churchill Downs
The state’s substantial investment in Pimlico and horse racing is complicated by the sale of key race IP rights, raising questions about financial strategy and public transparency
Churchill Downs Incorporated’s acquisition of the Preakness Stakes and Black Eyed Susan Stakes intellectual property from 1/ST Maryland LLC, controlled by the Stronach family, has sparked debate over Maryland’s $500 million investment in horse racing infrastructure. Under a 2024 lease agreement, Maryland pays annual f…