The 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival ushers in a new era with its vibrant showcase of local talent, offering racing enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to witness the brilliance of New York-bred horses. As Saratoga Race Course continues to serve as the temporary home for this prestigious event, fans can expect a week filled with thrilling stakes races and an impressive display of equine athleticism.Experience the Thrill: Celebrating the Best of New York’s Racing Legacy
Join us as we delve into the heart of one of the most anticipated weeks in American horse racing. With millions in prize money and world-class competition, the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival promises unforgettable moments for both seasoned bettors and casual spectators alike.
A Day Honoring Local Talent
Wednesday marks the start of the festival with "New York Showcase Day," a tribute to the state's thriving breeding and racing industry. This special day features six $200,000 stakes races exclusively designed for New York-breds, providing a platform for these exceptional athletes to shine on a national stage. Among the standout contenders are Instagrand in the Bouwerie S., Central Banker in the Commentator S., and Cupid in the Critical Eye S., each bringing their own unique strengths to the track.
Executive Director Najja Thompson of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders emphasized the significance of this event, stating that it offers fans and participants a chance to appreciate the caliber and potential within New York’s equestrian community. The morning-line favorites reflect the competitive spirit that defines this showcase, ensuring excitement from the first post to the final stretch.
An Unparalleled Spectator Experience
For those attending in person, the experience extends beyond the races themselves. Gates open at 11 a.m., giving attendees ample time to soak in the atmosphere before the first race begins at 12:40 p.m. with the GI Beverly R. Steinman Hurdle H. over the fences. To enhance the festivities, the first 10,000 paying guests will receive a commemorative white baseball cap adorned with the NYTB and 2025 Belmont Stakes logos—a tangible memento of this historic occasion.
This year’s festival spans five days, concluding on Sunday, June 8, and includes a staggering 27 stakes races boasting combined purses totaling $11.275 million. At the helm is the legendary 157th renewal of the GI Belmont Stakes, drawing global attention to what many consider the pinnacle of endurance and strategy in thoroughbred racing.
Thursday's Grass Track Extravaganza
As the festival progresses, Thursday brings another highlight with two prominent grass races—the GII Intercontinental S. and GIII Poker S. These events not only test the skill and stamina of the competing horses but also provide insight into emerging trends in turf racing. The Intercontinental S., particularly, captivates audiences with its dramatic finishes, as seen in last year’s nail-biting victory by Future Is Now (Great Notion).
This remarkable filly reprises her role against formidable opponents, including those who previously contested alongside her in the GIII Giant’s Causeway S. Her performance exemplifies the unpredictable nature of high-stakes racing, where every stride counts toward glory or defeat. Fans eagerly anticipate whether Future Is Now can replicate her success or if a new champion will emerge from this elite field.
Broadcasting the Magic
America’s Day at the Races ensures that even those unable to attend in person can partake in the exhilaration through comprehensive coverage on FOX Sports networks. Analysts and commentators bring their expertise to bear, dissecting each race and offering insights that deepen viewers’ appreciation for the nuances of thoroughbred competition.
This media partnership amplifies the reach of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, allowing it to connect with a broader audience while maintaining its reputation as a cornerstone of American sporting culture. Whether watching live or reviewing highlights, fans worldwide can revel in the drama and elegance that define this iconic series of races.
