LAUREL, MD—The New York Knights seek a repeat victory in Maryland as the National Thoroughbred League (NTL) kicks off its 2026 season at Laurel Park on Saturday afternoon.

The NTL, now in its fourth season, is a first-of-its-kind racing league that reimagines America’s oldest spectator sport in a team-based professional format.

By prioritizing industry participation, equine safety, and consistent, high-level competition, NTL gives fans the opportunity to follow and support celebrated horses and jockeys month after month and year after year.

Beyond the track, NTL delivers a modern lifestyle experience, curating weekends of food, fashion, and entertainment inspired by the sport’s most iconic celebrations.

Saturday’s racing kicks off a six-event national season in which teams compete across the country for a league championship.

Saturday’s three NTL races (Races 5-7) offer a combined purse of $98,000. All ten teams entered at least two horses in each race.

Race 5, The Charm City Cup, drew ten horses for one mile on the main track.

Race 6, The Golden Horseshoe Classic, features a field of ten at one mile on turf.

Race 7 is the Baltimore Blitz, a $56,000 allowance race at 1 1/16 miles on dirt.

Teams earn points based on their horse’s finishing position in each race, with greater emphasis on the final race and bonus points for overall performance.

The NTL activities begin Friday evening between 7 and 10 pm with the NTL VIP Kickoff Party at the Horse You Came In On Saloon.

On Saturday, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, owner of the Maryland Colts team franchise, will host the NTL races at Laurel Park.

“There's no better way to open a season than bringing the NTL back to Maryland with Lamar Jackson," said Mike Monroe, CEO of the National Thoroughbred League.

For ticket information, please visit here.