Belmont Stakes Features High-Stakes Clash Between Sovereignty, Journalism

The 2025 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga promises an epic showdown between Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness winner Journalism, highlighted as the year's most anticipated horse racing event. Sovereignty, trained by Bill Mott and owned by Godolphin, skipped the Preakness to rest after his Derby win, while Journalism, the only horse to compete in all three Triple Crown races, seeks redemption after his Preakness victory over Sovereignty. The race has been shortened to 1 1/4 miles due to Belmont Park renovations, a change that may favor Journalism given his racing style and pedigree. Other notable contenders include Baeza, a strong competitor finishing third in the Derby, and Rodríguez, returning from injury and the winner of the Wood Memorial. This rivalry encapsulates the East versus West Coast dynamic, with both horses boasting impressive bloodlines and training, setting the stage for a historic rematch. The event is drawing significant wagering interest and international attention, also featuring British contender Heart Of Honor and a robust undercard across multiple domestic races.