The Belmont Stakes is one of the most anticipated events in horse racing, drawing attention from fans, bettors, and analysts across the country. As the final leg of the Triple Crown, it often features top-performing horses from the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, along with new challengers looking to make their mark.

With a field of elite 3-year-olds, millions on the line, and a race distance that changes the dynamic, the 157th Belmont Stakes offers more intrigue than ever. Here’s everything you need to know and what to expect on race day.

Key Race Day Details

The 2025 Belmont Stakes will occur on Saturday, June 7, at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. The main event is scheduled to begin at approximately 6:45 PM ET. Television coverage starts with pre-race programming on USA Network at 2:00 PM ET, followed by the main race broadcast on NBC from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM ET.

Several streaming options are available for those watching online. Fans can tune in via Peacock, NBC’s dedicated streaming platform, or access coverage through NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports App on iOS and Android devices. 

Why the Belmont Stakes Is at Saratoga in 2025

The Belmont Stakes, traditionally run at Belmont Park, has temporarily relocated due to a massive $455 million renovation project at the track. These improvements include a modernized grandstand, and an upgraded racing surface, all aimed at elevating the experience.

This shift to Saratoga marks only the second time in history that the race won’t be held at Belmont. Due to track limitations at Saratoga, this year’s Belmont will be contested over 1¼ miles instead of the traditional 1½ miles. 

How Much Is the Belmont Stakes Purse?

The total purse for the 2025 Belmont Stakes is $2 million, with the top finishers earning the following shares:

• 1st Place: $1.2 million
• 2nd Place: $360,000
• 3rd Place: $200,000
• 4th Place: $100,000
• 5th Place: $60,000
• 6th Place: $40,000
• 7th & 8th Place: $20,000 each

Top 2025 Belmont Stakes Contenders

Here’s a closer look at the top horses likely to enter the starting gate:

Sovereignty

Sovereignty enters the 2025 Belmont Stakes as the 8-5 morning-line favorite. Trained by Hall of Famer Bill Mott, he holds an impressive record, including a decisive win in the Kentucky Derby. After skipping the Preakness Stakes, he’s been training at Saratoga Race Course in preparation for the Belmont. Given his strong performance and promising odds, Sovereignty has emerged as a top contender in  Belmont betting, drawing attention from analysts and bettors alike. Many see him as a smart pick for strategic wagers.

Journalism

Journalism comes into the Belmont Stakes with early odds of  9-5. He is trained by Michael W. McCarthy and impressed in the Preakness Stakes with a strong closing run to win, following a runner-up finish in the Kentucky Derby. Journalism has proven he can handle top competition and longer distances. A win at Belmont would boost his resume and fuel a growing rivalry with Derby winner Sovereignty.

Baeza

Baeza enters the 2025 Belmont Stakes with 7-2 odds. Baeza has demonstrated his resilience and closing speed after securing a third-place finish in the Kentucky Derby. Known for his grinding style and strong late kick, he is poised to capitalize on the slightly shorter distance of this year’s Belmont Stakes. This setup could play to his strengths, giving him a better shot at closing in on the leaders down the stretch.

Rodriguez

Rodriguez heads into the Belmont Stakes with 6-1 odds. He’s coming off a decisive win in the Grade 2 Wood Memorial and has been training well since. Known for his early speed and sharpness, Rodriguez could be a pace-setter in the race. 

Gearing Up for the Belmont

The 2025 Belmont Stakes is shaping up to be one of the most compelling Triple Crown finales in recent memory. With top contenders like Sovereignty and Journalism on a collision course and Saratoga’s unique setting adding flavor to the drama, this race is a must-watch event, whether you’re a hardcore horseplayer or a weekend fan.