Belmont Stakes 2026: Saratoga to Host Final Temporary Edition
The landscape of New York horse racing is currently undergoing a significant transition. Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced that the 2026 Belmont Stakes will mark the third and final time the prestigious event is hosted at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York.
This temporary relocation is necessary as the primary venue, Belmont Park, undergoes extensive redevelopment. The historic track is currently scheduled to reopen its doors in the fall of 2026, returning the race to its traditional home.
Adjustments to Race Distance
Hosting the event at Saratoga Race Course requires a modification to the race's traditional length. Because Saratoga features a smaller main track, the distance is reduced to 1 1⁄ 4 miles (10 furlongs; 2,012 meters). This is shorter than the standard Belmont Stakes distance of 1 1⁄ 2 miles (12 furlongs; 2,414 meters).
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Historical Precedent for Relocation
While the current move to Saratoga is a major event, it is not the first time the Belmont Stakes has been moved due to construction. Between 1963 and 1967, the race was held at the Aqueduct Race Track in Ozone Park, Queens, while Belmont Park was previously under construction.
Broadcast and Viewing Details
Fans can access the event through a comprehensive media partnership. Fox Sports holds the TV broadcast rights, with coverage available on the main Fox channel, Fox Sports 1, and FS2. For those preferring digital access, streaming coverage is provided for free via Fubo.
The broadcast schedule typically begins with early coverage on FS2 at 10:30 a.m. ET, followed by the main Fox channel coverage starting at 3 p.m. ET.
Race Day Logistics
Timing is critical in professional racing. The scheduled post time—the official time the race is set to begin—was 7:04 p.m. However, due to impending weather conditions, the start was moved forward to 7:01 p.m. to ensure the safety of the athletes and spectators.
Key Facts
- Final Saratoga Date: 2026 will be the third and last year the race is held at Saratoga Race Course.
- Distance Change: Reduced to 1 1⁄ 4 miles (10 furlongs) from the usual 1 1⁄ 2 miles (12 furlongs).
- Belmont Park Reopening: Scheduled for the fall of 2026.
- Historical Alternative: Aqueduct Race Track hosted the race from 1963 to 1967.
- Broadcasters: Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Fubo (streaming).
| Venue | Distance (Miles) | Distance (Furlongs) | Distance (Meters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belmont Park (Standard) | 1 1⁄ 2 | 12 | 2,414 m |
| Saratoga Race Course (Temporary) | 1 1⁄ 4 | 10 | 2,012 m |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Belmont Stakes return to Belmont Park?
Belmont Park is scheduled to reopen in the fall of 2026.
Why is the race distance shorter at Saratoga?
The race is shorter (1 1⁄ 4 miles instead of 1 1⁄ 2 miles) because Saratoga Race Course has a smaller main track.
Has the Belmont Stakes ever been moved before?
Yes, the race was held at Aqueduct Race Track in Ozone Park, Queens, from 1963 to 1967 while Belmont Park was under construction.
Where can I watch the Belmont Stakes?
The race is broadcast on Fox Sports, Fox Sports 1, and FS2, with free streaming available on Fubo.
What is "post time"?
Post time is the official scheduled start time for the race.