Belmont Stakes

Publication date: 14 August 2025

About the Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes is not just one of the three major horse races in the United States — it is a true sporting and cultural event that annually serves as the grand finale of the U.S. Triple Crown. This prestigious race traditionally takes place in the village of Elmont, New York, at Belmont Park. The date is always set for the first or second Saturday in June — exactly five weeks after the Kentucky Derby and three weeks after the Preakness Stakes.

The classic race distance is 2.4 km (1.5 miles), making it the longest of the three Triple Crown legs. It is no coincidence that the race is called The Test of the Champion, as it challenges not only the speed but also the endurance of the horses. Another nickname is The Run for the Carnations — the winning horse is draped with a blanket of white carnations. Creating this prize requires about 700 flowers, which are specially imported from Colombia.

Belmont Stakes 2026: The Finale for Three-Year-Olds

In 2026, the Belmont Stakes will once again be the pinnacle of the U.S. horse racing season. The event will take place on Saturday, June 6. However, just like in the previous two seasons, it will be held not at Belmont Park, but at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs. This change is due to large-scale renovations of the main venue, scheduled for completion in the fall of 2026.

Saratoga has already successfully hosted the race in 2024 and 2025, and in 2026 it will once again welcome the best jockeys, thoroughbreds, and thousands of spectators. Unlike the traditional 1.5-mile distance, the Saratoga course will measure 1¼ miles, adding a new dynamic to the competition. Nevertheless, victory here remains one of the most coveted prizes in American horse racing.

Format and Festival Program

The Belmont Stakes concludes the U.S. Triple Crown series, determining the strongest three-year-old racehorse of the season. Alongside the main event, the five-day Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will take place — a vibrant celebration featuring additional races, entertainment programs, and exclusive areas for spectators.

Tickets and Spectator Experience

Ticket sales for 2026 will begin on February 13, 2025. Guests will be offered a variety of options, from standard grandstand seats to luxury packages with access to restaurants, lounge areas, and private suites. This event attracts not only Thoroughbred racing enthusiasts but also those seeking an atmosphere of glamour and excitement.

History and Traditions

The first Belmont Stakes took place on June 19, 1867, at Jerome Park in the Bronx, where a filly named Ruthless became the inaugural winner. Since then, the race venue has changed three times:

• 1867–1890 — Jerome Park

• 1890–1904 — Morris Park

• 1905–present — Belmont Park

Since 1926, the winner has been awarded the legendary August Belmont Trophy — a silver bowl that the owner may keep for one year.

Previous horse races results

2027 Belmont Stakes

There is currently no information on the dates or location of the next Belmont Stakes horse race.

Official website of the horse races Belmont Stakes

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