The 2025 Belmont Stakes is set to captivate horse racing fans on Saturday, June 7, at Saratoga Race Course. Due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park, the race returns to Saratoga for the second consecutive year. This year’s event features a compelling rematch between Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness Stakes champion Journalism, promising an exciting conclusion to the Triple Crown series.
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2025 Belmont Stakes: Essential Updates
Venue & Date
The Belmont Stakes in 2025 will take place on Saturday, June seventh at Saratoga Race Course, continuing the temporary relocation due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park. The race distance has been shortened to one and one-quarter miles, down from the traditional one and one-half miles. The event will be broadcast live on FOX, with post time scheduled for seven oh four p.m. Eastern Time.
Field & Odds
The lineup includes eight horses, with the spotlight on the rivalry between Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness winner Journalism. Sovereignty, having skipped the Preakness to rest, enters the race well-prepared, while Journalism is notable for having competed in all three Triple Crown races this year. Other prominent entrants include Baeza, who finished third in the Derby and also skipped the Preakness, and Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert.
Race Dynamics
Journalism comes in as the favorite after his Preakness victory but faces questions about potential fatigue from running all three Triple Crown events. Sovereignty’s fresh condition is seen as a key advantage. Baeza and Rodriguez are considered strong contenders, benefiting from rest and Saratoga’s reputation for producing surprises.
Summary Table: Top Contenders
| Horse | Odds | Notable Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Journalism | Even money | Preakness winner, ran all Triple Crown races |
| Baeza | Seven to two | Third in Derby, skipped Preakness |
| Sovereignty | Four to one | Derby winner, well-rested |
| Rodriguez | Eight to one | Trained by Bob Baffert |
The 2025 Belmont Stakes promises an exciting and competitive race, highlighting the anticipated rematch between Journalism and Sovereignty, with several rested challengers ready to challenge for victory at Saratoga.
Top Contenders and Current Odds
As of May 31, the early odds for the 2025 Belmont Stakes are:
- Sovereignty: 8-5 favorite
- Journalism: 9-5
- Baeza: 7-2
- Rodriguez: Odds pending
- Heart of Honor: 20-1
Sovereignty, trained by Bill Mott and ridden by Junior Alvarado, aims to secure his second Triple Crown victory after skipping the Preakness to focus on the Belmont. Journalism, who finished second in the Derby and won the Preakness, seeks redemption and a chance to even the score. Baeza, the Derby’s third-place finisher, remains a strong contender. Rodriguez, despite a late scratch from the Derby due to a foot issue, is expected to bring early speed to the race.
Race Details and Adjustments
The 157th Belmont Stakes will be contested over 1¼ miles, shorter than the traditional 1½ miles, due to Saratoga’s track configuration. The race offers a $2 million purse, with $1.2 million awarded to the winner. Post time is scheduled for 7:04 PM ET, and the event will be broadcast live on FOX.
Belmont Stakes Racing Festival Highlights
The Belmont Stakes is the centerpiece of a five-day Racing Festival at Saratoga, running from June 4 to June 8. The festival features 27 stakes races with total purses exceeding $11 million. Notable events include:
- June 4: “New York Showcase Day” with six $200,000 races highlighting New York-bred horses.
- June 6: A lineup of four Grade 1 events, including the $1 million Hill ‘n’ Dale Metropolitan Handicap.
- June 7: Belmont Stakes Day, featuring eight stakes races, including five Grade 1 events.
Attendees can also enjoy concerts, food and drink offerings, and various fan experiences throughout the festival.
Betting Insights and Predictions
With Sovereignty and Journalism leading the field, bettors face a challenging decision. Sovereignty’s fresh legs and Derby performance make him a strong favorite, while Journalism’s momentum from the Preakness cannot be overlooked. Baeza offers value as a consistent performer, and Rodriguez could surprise with a strong early pace.
For those seeking longshots, Heart of Honor at 20-1 presents an opportunity for a high-reward wager. As always, consider exacta and trifecta bets to maximize potential returns.
Don’t miss the thrilling conclusion of the Triple Crown series at the 2025 Belmont Stakes. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, the race promises excitement and memorable moments. Tune in on June 7 to witness history in the making.