Belmont Stakes returns to Saratoga as Belmont Park rebuild continues
The Belmont Stakes, the final jewel of American horse racing's Triple Crown, returns to Saratoga Race Course on Saturday for a third consecutive year, continuing a temporary relocation that has reshaped one of the sport's most historic events.
While many fans still associate the race with Belmont Park in New York, ongoing redevelopment work means the 2026 edition will once again be staged at the historic Saratoga venue before a planned return to Belmont Park next year.
Why isn't the Belmont Stakes being held at Belmont Park?
The answer lies in a major modernization project currently underway at Belmont Park.
The iconic venue, which has hosted the Belmont Stakes for the overwhelming majority of its history since 1905, is undergoing a complete redevelopment aimed at transforming it into one of the world's premier racing facilities.
According to the New York Racing Association (NYRA), the new Belmont Park will feature a modern five-story grandstand spanning approximately 300,000 square feet, enhanced hospitality offerings, upgraded fan experiences and an expanded infield area.
The reconstruction project began after decades without major upgrades, with the last significant renovation taking place in 1968. As a result, the Belmont Stakes moved to Saratoga in 2024 and remains there in 2026 while construction nears completion.
When will the Belmont Stakes return to Belmont Park?
Belmont Park is scheduled to reopen for live racing in September 2026.
If construction timelines remain on track, the Belmont Stakes is expected to return to its traditional home in 2027.
The move will restore one of the race's most distinctive features, its famous 1½-mile distance.
How is the race different at Saratoga?
One of the biggest changes caused by the venue switch is the race distance.
Traditionally, the Belmont Stakes is contested over 1½ miles at Belmont Park, earning it the nickname "The Test of the Champion" due to its demanding stamina requirements.
However, Saratoga Race Course cannot accommodate that distance in the same way because of its track configuration.
As a result, the Belmont Stakes has been run at 1¼ miles since moving to Saratoga. The shorter distance significantly alters race tactics, placing greater emphasis on speed and positioning rather than pure endurance.
A race rich in history
The Belmont Stakes is actually older than both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.
First run in 1867 at Jerome Park, it has been staged at several New York venues throughout its history, including Morris Park Racecourse, Aqueduct Racetrack, and Belmont Park.
The race remains one of horse racing's most prestigious events and serves as the final leg of the Triple Crown series.
Belmont Stakes 2026: Key Details
Race information
- Venue: Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Springs, New York
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Post Time: 7:04 PM ET
- Purse: $2 million
- Winner's Prize: $1.2 million
How to watch
Fans can watch the race live on Fox, FS1, and FS2, with streaming options available through Fubo.
Belmont Stakes 2026 Favorites
The 2026 field features nine runners, including Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo, who skipped the Preakness Stakes to focus on the Belmont.
Morning-Line Favorites
- Renegade (2-1)
- Chief Wallabee (3-1)
- Golden Tempo (9-2)
- Commandment (6-1)
Renegade enters as the favorite after a strong spring campaign that included victory in the Arkansas Derby and a runner-up finish in the Kentucky Derby.
The colt will be ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., a two-time Belmont Stakes-winning jockey seeking another major triumph at Saratoga.
Triple Crown Glory not on the line
Unlike some editions of the Belmont Stakes, there will be no Triple Crown bid this year. Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo did not compete in the Preakness Stakes, eliminating the possibility of completing racing's most famous achievement.
Nevertheless, the race remains one of the most anticipated events on the horse racing calendar. It offers a crucial opportunity for the sport's leading three-year-olds to cement their place in history.
For one more year, that history will continue to be written at Saratoga before the Belmont Stakes eventually returns home to Belmont Park.
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