The 2025 Belmont Stakes is poised to deliver an exhilarating finale to this year’s Triple Crown series, despite the fact that no horse will be claiming the coveted title of Triple Crown winner. This year’s race promises a thrilling rematch between two of the season’s standout competitors: Sovereignty and Journalism. The anticipation is palpable as these elite athletes prepare to face off at Saratoga’s racecourse in Upstate New York, where the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Sovereignty, who won the Kentucky Derby by a solid margin of 1 1/2 lengths over Journalism, opted not to participate in the Preakness. This strategic decision sets the stage for an electrifying showdown as he enters the final leg of the Triple Crown, racing from post position No. 2. As the morning-line favorite, Sovereignty boasts odds of 2-1, showcasing the confidence that Trainer Bill Mott and Jockey Junior Alvarado have in their extraordinary horse.
On the flip side, Journalism, who secured victories in the Preakness, has drawn post position No. 7 and enters the Belmont Stakes as the morning-line favorite at 8-5. Under the guidance of Trainer Michael McCarthy and Jockey Umberto Rispoli, Journalism is eager to prove himself once again on the big stage.
The upcoming Belmont Stakes takes place Saturday, with a scheduled post time of 7:04 p.m. ET. This year marks the second consecutive time the Belmont will be held at Saratoga, as Belmont Park undergoes renovations to enhance its historic offerings.
As the excitement builds, let’s take a closer look at the contenders for the 2025 Belmont Stakes, along with their morning-line odds, trainers, and jockeys:
1. Hill Road (10-1)
- Trainer: Chad Brown
- Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.
Hill Road enters this prestigious race with a promising pedigree. Known for his steady pacing, Hill Road has shown the potential to pull off an upset. With Ortiz in the saddle, this horse could surprise many with a late push in the final stretches.
2. Sovereignty (2-1)
- Trainer: Bill Mott
- Jockey: Junior Alvarado
Sovereignty stands as one of the strongest contenders. Following a stunning performance in the Kentucky Derby, he has established himself as a force on the track. His strategy to skip the Preakness allows him to conserve energy and maintain his competitive edge. All eyes will be on Sovereignty as he seeks to cement his legacy.
3. Rodriguez (6-1)
- Trainer: Bob Baffert
- Jockey: Mike Smith
Another formidable player in this lineup is Rodriguez. Trained by the legendary Bob Baffert, Rodriguez benefits from expert training and insight. With Jockey Mike Smith, a seasoned veteran in the sport, Rodriguez is well-positioned to navigate the challenges of the Belmont Stakes.
4. Uncaged (30-1)
- Trainer: Todd Pletcher
- Jockey: Luis Saez
Despite being a long shot, Uncaged has potential. With Trainer Todd Pletcher’s expertise and Jockey Luis Saez’s skill, this horse could make a surprising impact if conditions align favorably.
5. Crudo (15-1)
- Trainer: Todd Pletcher
- Jockey: John Velazquez
Crudo, another entry from Pletcher’s stable, carries a competitive spirit that might just surprise the competition. With Jockey John Velazquez steering the reins, he possesses the experience to navigate the nuances of the race.
6. Baeza (4-1)
- Trainer: John Shirreffs
- Jockey: Flavien Prat
With odds at 4-1, Baeza stands as a strong contender. Trained by John Shirreffs and ridden by Flavien Prat, Baeza’s blend of speed and stamina makes him a serious threat on race day.
7. Journalism (8-5)
- Trainer: Michael McCarthy
- Jockey: Umberto Rispoli
Rounding out the list is Journalism. As the current favorite, he carries the weight of expectation on his shoulders. Following a remarkable victory in the Preakness, he now aims to solidify his place among the greats. Rispoli’s skill and McCarthy’s training could be the winning combination in what promises to be an incredible race.
8. Heart of Honor (30-1)
- Trainer: Jamie Osborne
- Jockey: Saffie Osborne
Heart of Honor may have the longest odds, but the unpredictable nature of horse racing means anything is possible. With an underdog narrative at play, he could capture the hearts of fans and push for an unexpected finish.
As the 2025 Belmont Stakes approaches, the buzz surrounding these contenders grows stronger. Fans and betting enthusiasts alike are carefully analyzing the morning-line odds and strategies that may lead to victory. While the Triple Crown aspirations for this year may have faded, the excitement of the Belmont Stakes remains undiminished.
The stakes are high, and with so many talented horses set to compete, this year’s race is sure to be one for the ages. Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a newcomer to the world of horse racing, the Belmont Stakes presents an opportunity not to be missed.
Fans will gather at Saratoga, eager to witness the drama unfold as these elite athletes go head-to-head. With the post positions now set and the odds announced, it’s time for trainers, jockeys, and fans alike to prepare for an unforgettable evening of racing. The 2025 Belmont Stakes promises to be a showcase of skill, speed, and sportsmanship, and as always, emotions will run high as the horses approach the track.
Don’t forget to tune in as the race develops on Saturday, October 7th, a date already marked as one to remember in the world of horse racing.
