The 2026 Belmont Stakes is set to bring another exciting chapter to Thoroughbred horse racing as the prestigious Triple Crown finale returns to Saratoga Race Course. Scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, the race will mark the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes and promises to attract racing fans from across the United States.
For the third consecutive year, the Belmont Stakes will be held at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. The temporary relocation continues while extensive renovations and construction work are completed at Belmont Park, the race’s traditional home.
When Is the 2026 Belmont Stakes?
Horse racing enthusiasts can mark their calendars for Saturday, June 6, 2026. The highly anticipated race is expected to begin at approximately 7:04 p.m. ET and will serve as the final leg of the Triple Crown series.
2026 Belmont Stakes Schedule
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Race | 2026 Belmont Stakes |
| Edition | 158th Running |
| Date | June 6, 2026 |
| Time | Approx. 7:04 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Saratoga Race Course |
| Location | Saratoga Springs, New York |
| Distance | 1¼ Miles (10 Furlongs) |
| Surface | Dirt |
| TV Channel | FOX |
| Live Stream | FOX One |
Post Position Draw Date
One of the most important pre-race events is the official post position draw. The 2026 Belmont Stakes post position draw is scheduled for Monday, June 1, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET.
During the draw, the starting gate assignments for the competing horses will be determined. The draw often plays a significant role in shaping betting strategies and race expectations heading into Belmont Stakes weekend.
Expected Entries for the 2026 Belmont Stakes
While the final field will be confirmed after the official draw, several talented contenders are currently expected to participate in this year’s race.
Belmont Stakes Expected Runners
| Horse |
|---|
| Renegade |
| Golden Tempo |
| Chief Wallabee |
| Commandment |
| Emerging Market |
| Powershift |
| Growth Equity |
| Ocelli |
| Ottinho |
| Vitruvian Man |
Renegade enters as the early favorite at 2-1, while Golden Tempo is also expected to receive strong support from bettors at 3-1. Horses such as Chief Wallabee, Commandment, and Emerging Market could emerge as serious challengers in what appears to be a competitive field.
Saratoga Continues Triple Crown Tradition
Saratoga Race Course has successfully hosted the Belmont Stakes during the ongoing Belmont Park renovation project. The historic venue has delivered memorable racing moments over the past two years and will once again welcome the sport’s biggest stars for the Triple Crown finale.
The shorter 1¼-mile distance at Saratoga has added a unique dynamic to the race, creating exciting finishes and opening opportunities for a wider range of contenders.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Belmont Stakes is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated horse racing events of the year. With a talented group of expected entries, competitive odds, and the historic atmosphere of Saratoga Race Course, fans can look forward to an unforgettable day of racing. Be sure to watch the post position draw on June 1 and tune in to FOX on June 6 for all the action from the 158th Belmont Stakes.