Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will host an National Thoroughbred League event on Saturday, May 2nd at Laurel Park. The schedule marks the opening of the 2026 league season at Estados Unidos. The event coincides with the Kentucky Derby weekend.
The two-day celebration begins on Friday, May 1st at The Horse You Came In On Saloon, in Fell’s Point. The next day, the action focuses on the racecourse with live racing. Maryland has already received an NTL stage in 2025, in Pimlico.
Jackson brings visibility to Maryland’s turf
Lamar Jackson’s involvement helps bring attention to the sport on one of the most important weekends in the equestrian calendar. The player, who already has a connection with horse racing, reinforces the league’s presence in Baltimore. Organizadores expect a varied audience, which includes American football fans and traditional turf fans.
Jackson acts as the host. The initiative seeks to bring new audiences closer to the world of racing.
Formato Teams Defines NTL Competition
National Thoroughbred League works with ten teams linked to cities. Cada horse runs representing one of them. Pontos accumulated throughout the season decides the overall champion.
- Corridas scores for team standings
- Eventos combines sport and experience for the public
- Proprietários include athletes, artists and businesspeople
- Temporada 2026 starts at Maryland
The model turns races into a dispute for cities. Cavalos compete on behalf of specific teams in stages spread across the country.
Corridas specials define Saturday in Laurel Park
Três tests count as NTL officials in the day’s program. Elas form the core of the competition in Maryland.
Race 5 is named Charm City Cup. Race 6 is Golden Horseshoe Classic. Race 7 is titled Baltimore Blitz.
Essas races generate points for teams. The rest of the card includes other regular events. The complete program is available on the racecourse’s official channels.
Celebração starts on Friday in Fell’s Point
The opening event takes on a festive tone on Friday. The The Horse You Came In On Saloon, in Fell’s Point, receives the first part of the programming. Participantes can enjoy the night before Saturday’s races.
Horsemen of Maryland get 25% discount on tickets. The package includes access to the Friday party. Ingressos for Saturday are on sale via the SeatGeek platform.
Maryland repeats 2025 success with new location
The state hosted an NTL stage last year at Pimlico. The positive experience led to the choice of Laurel Park to open the 2026 season. Organizadores highlight the growth of local interest.
The league promotes each stop with a focus on entertainment. Além of racing, there is VIP hospitality, food and attractions that go beyond traditional racing. The aim is to make the day more accessible for families and new viewers.
What to Expect on Saturday on Laurel Park
The program starts at noon. NTL races occupy positions 5, 6 and 7. Público can track standings updated in real time throughout the day.
The presence of Lamar Jackson should generate extra movement in the common areas of the racecourse. Fotos and fan interactions are planned. The atmosphere of Derby weekend adds energy to the event.
The organizers emphasize that the Laurel stage is part of a larger calendar. Próximas NTL shutdowns take place in other states throughout 2026.