The Belmont Stakes, traditionally the concluding leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown and known as the “Test of the Champion,” takes on a new dimension in 2025. As the race temporarily shifts to Saratoga Race Course and adjusts to a shorter distance, understanding the top contenders and their early betting odds becomes even more crucial.
This guide examines the notable horses expected to compete at Saratoga and their positions in the early betting markets, helping enthusiasts prepare for one of the year’s premier betting races.
A Temporary Home at Saratoga
For the second consecutive year, the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival takes place at Saratoga Race Course. This relocation allows for uninterrupted construction and renovations at the traditional venue, Belmont Park.
The 2025 festival spans five days and features a substantial $11,275,000 in purses across 27 stakes races. Headlining the event on Saturday, June 7th, is the 157th running of the Grade 1, $2 million Belmont Stakes. Due to Saratoga’s main track configuration, the race distance is set at 1 1/4 miles, a change from the historic 1 1/2 miles at Belmont Park.
Leading the Pack and a Familiar Challenger
Early odds highlight several prominent contenders, including Sierra Leone, who is considered the likely favorite. This colt has demonstrated consistent high-level performance, finishing second by small margins in major races.
Also expected to draw significant betting interest is Fierceness, the beaten favorite from the Kentucky Derby. Trainer Todd Pletcher has a notable record in the Belmont Stakes, having won the race four times, including with horses that did not fare well in the Derby.
Sierra Leone’s Credentials and Odds
Sierra Leone enters the potential field with strong credentials, having proven his ability to compete at different venues and get required distances. His early odds reflect his status, ranging from +200 to +210 according to Las Vegas lines updated May 12, 2025.
For bettors evaluating Belmont Betting odds 2025, these figures place him among the most exciting choices in the current field.
He finished just a nose behind the winner in both the Grade 2 Remsen last year and the Grade 1 Kentucky Derby this year.
Fierceness’s Potential Bounce-Back
Despite an inconsistent record, Fierceness possesses the talent to be brilliant when circumstances align. Trainer Todd Pletcher’s history of success with Derby runners who rebounded in the Belmont suggests Fierceness could be a factor. While not listed in the specific May 12 odds table provided, his name is frequently mentioned among anticipated contenders.
Classic Rivals Reunited: Journalism and Sovereignty
As anticipation builds for the 2025 Belmont Stakes, few storylines are more compelling than the potential rematch between Journalism and Sovereignty, winners of this year’s Preakness and Kentucky Derby, respectively. Both colts have established themselves as elite talents, each securing a major victory with contrasting running styles—Sovereignty surging late with a devastating kick, and Journalism showcasing grit and tactical precision along the rail in a rain-soaked Preakness.
Sovereignty arrives at Saratoga fresh, having skipped the Preakness by design to target the Belmont. Trainer Bill Mott describes the Godolphin homebred as “sharp and eager,” signaling readiness for the 1¼-mile test. Meanwhile, Journalism enters off back-to-back Triple Crown efforts, including a close runner-up finish in the Derby. Trainer Michael McCarthy is weighing the colt’s recovery and form before confirming a start.
Should both line up on June 7, their rivalry will add layers of drama to a field already rich with talent. Each has proven their mettle against top competition, and their contrasting approaches to the Triple Crown trail set the stage for a thrilling showdown in Saratoga’s shortened “Test of the Champion.”
Introducing Untested but Talented Prospects
As is often the case in the Belmont, new horses who skipped the previous Triple Crown races are expected to enter the picture. These fresh faces can sometimes upset the more tested contenders.
The undefeated Mindframe is a highly regarded newcomer pointing towards the race. Another intriguing possibility is Kentucky Oaks winner Thorpedo Anna, whose connections have successfully raced fillies against males in Classic races before.
Mindframe’s Promising Trajectory
Mindframe has yet to race in stakes company but has impressed in both his starts, winning by large margins. He broke his maiden by 13 3/4 lengths and followed up with a 7 1/2-length score on the Kentucky Derby undercard. While needing to prove his class against Grade 1 company, his early odds are set around +700, reflecting his potential.
Thorpedo Anna’s Cross-Gender Challenge
Thorpedo Anna dominated the Kentucky Oaks, prompting speculation about a start against males in the Belmont. Trainer Kenny McPeek previously sent Swiss Skydiver, a Kentucky Oaks runner-up, to victory against Derby winner Authentic in the 2020 Preakness. While her entry is not confirmed, her presence would add another layer of excitement to the race.
Handicapping Considerations for the Shorter Distance
The temporary shift to a 1 1/4-mile distance at Saratoga from the traditional 1 1/2 miles impacts handicapping. While stamina remains crucial, tactical speed is often advantageous in the Belmont. Horses that can stay close to the pace are frequently rewarded.
Additionally, examining a horse’s pedigree for indicators of success at longer distances is essential. Experience over the Saratoga surface, though not as significant as Belmont Park’s “Big Sandy,” can also be a positive factor.
For those considering placing bets, following the latest news on how contenders are training is crucial, as this can influence their odds. Understanding different odds formats (American, Fractional, Decimal) is also helpful when comparing offerings across various online sportsbooks.
Many reputable online platforms provide convenient and secure options for wagering on the Belmont Stakes. These sites often feature intuitive interfaces, trusted payment options, and incentives like deposit bonuses or rebates. Taking the time to compare these offerings can enhance your overall betting experience and potentially increase your bankroll.
New Venue and New Challenges
With a new venue, adjusted distance, and a mix of seasoned contenders and rising stars, the 2025 Belmont Stakes promises to deliver high drama and compelling betting opportunities. Whether you’re following top favorites like Sierra Leone and Sovereignty or scouting value among newcomers like Mindframe, understanding the nuances of this year’s race is key. As the final jewel of the Triple Crown unfolds at Saratoga, it brings with it both tradition and transformation—setting the stage for a memorable day in horse racing.
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