The 2025 Belmont Stakes, the 157th running of the historic “Test of the Champion,” is already generating buzz as the final leg of the Triple Crown. Scheduled for June 7, 2025, at Saratoga Race Course, it marks a significant departure from tradition. Due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park, the race will be held upstate at Saratoga, a move that changes the complexion of the race in several key ways.
The most notable change is the distance. Instead of the grueling 1 1/2 miles (12 furlongs) traditionally associated with the Belmont, the 2025 edition will be contested at a shorter distance of 1 1/4 miles (10 furlongs), the same distance as the Kentucky Derby. This alteration throws a wrench into handicapping, as stamina, usually paramount in the Belmont, will be less of a factor. Speed and tactical positioning will become more crucial, potentially favoring horses who performed well in the Derby and Preakness but lacked the stamina for the longer Belmont.
Saratoga’s track itself presents a unique challenge. Known as the “Graveyard of Champions,” the track is renowned for its deep, demanding surface and its tendency to produce upsets. The configuration also differs significantly from Belmont Park, featuring tighter turns. This shift benefits horses who handle the Saratoga surface well and possess the agility to navigate the turns efficiently. Local horses, those who have consistently raced at Saratoga, may have an advantage over horses unfamiliar with the track.
Looking ahead, several potential contenders are already on the radar, though much can change in the lead-up to the race. Horses who demonstrated promise in their two-year-old campaigns and are currently developing through their three-year-old seasons will be closely watched. Any horse that demonstrates the ability to handle Saratoga’s unique conditions will instantly become a serious threat. The winners and top finishers of key prep races, such as the Florida Derby, Santa Anita Derby, Arkansas Derby, and Blue Grass Stakes, will undoubtedly be among the leading contenders.
The change in venue and distance introduces an element of unpredictability to the 2025 Belmont Stakes. While traditional Belmont prep races will still provide valuable insight, handicappers will need to carefully consider the impact of Saratoga’s track and the shortened distance when assessing each horse’s chances. The 2025 Belmont Stakes promises to be a thrilling and potentially historic event, offering a fresh perspective on the final jewel of the Triple Crown.