Belmont Stakes: A Surprising Return to Saratoga Springs in 2025

In an unexpected twist, the 2025 Belmont Stakes, one of horse racing's most prestigious events, will once again be hosted by Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. Traditionally held at Belmont Park in Elmont, this marks the second year in a row that the race is being relocated.

The shift is due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park, where extensive improvements, costing over $400 million, are underway. The project, although initially scheduled for completion in 2026, may not wrap up in time to host the Belmont Stakes that year, with a 2027 return to Elmont now anticipated.

Racing fans adjusting to the venue change will experience Saratoga's unique 1.25-mile track compared to Belmont Park's 1.5-mile oval. Situated approximately a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Elmont and a short 35-minute journey from Albany, Saratoga offers its own historic charm and racing heritage.

This year, fans and bettors alike are eyeing favorites with keen interest: "Sovereignty" leads the odds at 2/1, with "Rodriguez" at 6/1 and "Hill Road" following at 10/1. These thoroughbreds promise to deliver thrilling competition.

Last year's Belmont Stakes saw "Dornoch" clinch victory, ridden by jockey Luis Saez and trained by Danny Gargan. The horse has connections to former MLB player Jayson Werth, who co-owns the champion.

The stakes have changed, but the excitement remains. Race day approaches with fervor, as the thrill of the 'Test of the Champion' continues from Saratoga Springs.