Belmont Stakes 2025: A Historic Shift to Saratoga Race Course
The 157th running of the Belmont Stakes took place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 6:50 p.m. EDT. This edition of the prestigious race was marked by a significant change in venue, moving away from its traditional home to the historic Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York.
The relocation was necessitated by a massive US$ 455 million renovation plan for Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 8, 2023, the construction project was expected to continue into 2025, requiring the race to be hosted elsewhere in the interim.
Key Facts
- Date: June 7, 2025
- Venue: Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Springs, NY
- Prize Purse: Increased to $2 million (up from $1.5 million)
- Broadcaster: Fox Sports
- Reason for Move: US$ 455 million renovation of Belmont Park
Course Adjustments and Logistics
Due to the smaller dimensions of the main dirt track at Saratoga, the race distance was shorter than the traditional 1 1⁄ 2 miles (12 furlongs or 2,414 meters). This adjustment ensured the race could be conducted safely and effectively within the constraints of the Saratoga facility.
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A Rare Departure from Tradition
While the Belmont Stakes is synonymous with Belmont Park, this was the second time the event was held at Saratoga Race Course. Such moves are rare in the history of the race. The only other period the Belmont Stakes was hosted at a different venue occurred between 1963 and 1967, when it was held at the Aqueduct Race Track in Ozone Park, Queens, while Belmont Park underwent previous construction.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Edition | 157th Running |
| Location | Saratoga Race Course |
| Purse | $2 million |
| Distance | Shorter than 1 1⁄ 2 miles |
| TV Coverage | Fox Sports |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the 2025 Belmont Stakes held at Saratoga?
The race was moved to Saratoga Race Course because Belmont Park was undergoing a US$ 455 million renovation plan announced by Governor Kathy Hochul.
Was the race distance the same as usual?
No, the race was shorter than the standard 1 1⁄ 2 miles (12 furlongs) because Saratoga's main dirt track is smaller than the track at Belmont Park.
How much was the prize purse for the 157th running?
The prize purse was increased to $2 million, up from the previous $1.5 million.
Has the Belmont Stakes ever been moved before?
Yes. Aside from the move to Saratoga, the race was held at Aqueduct Race Track from 1963 to 1967 during a prior period of construction at Belmont Park.
Who provided the television coverage for the event?
The race was broadcast by Fox Sports.