The Belmont Stakes 2025 is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown, set for Saturday, June 7, at Saratoga Race Course. As the final leg of horse racing’s prestigious Triple Crown, this 157th running promises high stakes and fierce competition. With no Triple Crown winner possible this year after different horses claimed the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, the focus shifts to a potential rematch between top contenders. Fans are buzzing about which horse will conquer the “Test of the Champion” on this historic stage.
Favorites to Watch at Belmont Stakes 2025
The Belmont Stakes 2025 field is loaded with talent, headlined by Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness Stakes victor Journalism. Sovereignty, trained by Bill Mott, sits as the 8-5 favorite, fresh off a gritty 1.5-length win over Journalism at Churchill Downs. His decision to skip the Preakness has kept him rested, potentially giving him an edge. Journalism, a 9-5 second favorite under trainer Michael McCarthy, showed resilience at Pimlico, overcoming a five-length deficit to win. Baeza, who finished third in the Derby, is another strong contender at 7-2 odds, bringing depth to the field. Other names like Rodríguez and Hill Road are also generating buzz, with longer odds but plenty of potential.
| Horse | Odds | Jockey | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sovereignty | 8-5 | Junior Alvarado | Won 2025 Kentucky Derby |
| Journalism | 9-5 | Umberto Rispoli | Won 2025 Preakness Stakes |
| Baeza | 7-2 | Flavien Prat | Third in 2025 Kentucky Derby |
| Rodríguez | 6-1 | Mike Smith | Scratched from earlier Triple Crown races |
| Hill Road | 20-1 | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Won Grade 3 Peter Pan Stakes |
Why Belmont Stakes 2025 Is Unique
This year’s Belmont Stakes 2025 stands out for its temporary home at Saratoga Race Course, a change driven by ongoing renovations at Belmont Park. The race distance is shortened to 1 ¼ miles from the traditional 1 ½ miles, aligning it with the Kentucky Derby’s length. This adjustment could favor horses like Sovereignty, who thrives at shorter distances, over closers like Journalism, who faced challenges in the longer stretch at Pimlico. The Saratoga track, known for its tighter turns and unique surface, adds another layer of intrigue. Bettors and fans must consider how these conditions will impact each horse’s strategy.
Expert Predictions and Betting Insights
Expert picks for the Belmont Stakes 2025 are stirring debate. Analyst Jody Demling, known for nailing four of the last seven Belmont winners, is surprisingly fading both Sovereignty and Journalism. He argues their popularity drives down betting value, especially since no Preakness runner has won the Belmont since 2018. Instead, Demling backs an underdog, touting it as the race’s best value. While he keeps his top pick under wraps, names like Hill Road or Rodríguez could fit the bill, given their recent form. For bettors, spreading wagers across win, place, or show bets—or even exotic wagers like exactas—could maximize returns in this unpredictable field.
What to Expect on Race Day
The Belmont Stakes 2025 will be the centerpiece of a five-day racing festival at Saratoga, featuring 27 stakes races and over $11 million in purses. The main event, with a $2 million purse, kicks off at 6:50 p.m. ET and will air on FOX. Post positions, set to be drawn on June 2, will play a big role in race strategy, especially on Saratoga’s compact track. Weather could also factor in, as a muddy track might favor horses like Sovereignty, who excelled in sloppy conditions at the Derby. Fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere, with live music, parties, and commemorative merchandise enhancing the experience.
Final Thoughts on Belmont Stakes 2025
With a star-studded field and a unique venue, the Belmont Stakes 2025 is poised to deliver unforgettable moments. Whether you’re rooting for Sovereignty to cement his legacy, Journalism to stage another comeback, or an underdog to steal the show, this race is anyone’s game. The shorter distance and Saratoga’s quirks level the playing field, making it a bettor’s paradise. Don’t miss the chance to witness history at the “Test of the Champion.”