Belmont Stakes 2025 To Host Final Triple Crown Leg At Saratoga With Major Renovation Ongoing

The 2025 Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the American Triple Crown, will be held on June 7 at Saratoga Race Course for the second consecutive year due to renovations at Belmont Park, with the race distance shortened to 1 1/4 miles from the usual 1 1/2 miles. Key contenders expected to compete include Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty, Preakness winner Journalism, and third-place Derby finisher Baeza, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch among top horses. The race offers a $2 million purse and will be part of a five-day Belmont Stakes racing festival featuring 27 stakes races with total purses exceeding $11 million. Oddsmakers consider factors such as past performance, pedigree, and track conditions to set betting odds, with Sovereignty anticipated to be the favorite. The field may also include other notable horses like Gosger, Hill Road, Heart of Honor, and Rodriguez, while additional entrants like McAfee would require a supplemental fee. This year's Belmont Stakes continues to generate excitement as a pivotal and competitive event despite the venue and distance changes.