Belmont Stakes Preview: Post Time, Horse Odds, Betting, and More!

Greg Kajewski
1 day ago
14 min read

Updated: 4 hours ago

The 2025 Belmont Stakes is set to be a thrilling showdown between Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness champion Journalism. Here's what you need to know:

Date & Time: Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 7:04 PM ET.
Location: Saratoga Race Course (temporary venue due to Belmont Park renovations).
Race Distance: Shortened to 1¼ miles (from the traditional 1½ miles).
Purse: $2 million.

Key Horses & Odds:

Journalism (8-5): Preakness winner, starting from post 7.
Sovereignty (2-1): Kentucky Derby winner, starting from post 2.
Baeza (4-1): Fresh contender with a strong pedigree.
Rodriguez (6-1): Known for early speed.
Longshots include Hill Road (10-1), Crudo (15-1), and Uncaged/Heart of Honor (30-1 each).

Betting Tips:

Favorites: Journalism and Sovereignty are expected to dominate.
Longshots: Consider Hill Road or Crudo for upset potential.
Bet Types: Win, Place, Show, Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta bets offer various risk-reward options.

The shortened distance could favor speed-focused horses, making this race unpredictable. Research odds, track conditions, and final workouts to make informed bets. Coverage starts at 2:00 PM ET (USA Network), with the main broadcast from 4:00–7:30 PM ET on NBC.

Good luck, and may your bets pay off!

Post Time and Event Details

Official Post Time

The 157th Belmont Stakes is set to kick off at 7:04 PM ET on Saturday, June 7, 2025. Pre-race coverage begins on USA Network at 2:00 PM ET, followed by NBC's main broadcast from 4:00 to 7:30 PM ET . This prime-time slot gives bettors ample time to lock in competitive odds. Platforms like BettorEdge can help you find the best-priced bets, ensuring you’re ready to make the most of your wagering strategy. With the race time locked in, let’s dive into the event’s unique details for this year.

Location and Changes for 2025

For the second year in a row, the Belmont Stakes will take place at Saratoga Race Course due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park. The race is expected to return to the revamped Belmont Park in 2026. Another notable change this year is the race’s distance, shortened to 1¼ miles from its traditional 1½ miles. This adjustment could benefit horses with speed-focused styles, potentially shifting the dynamics of the race.

The event is part of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, which runs from June 4 to June 8. This five-day festival features staggered start times, offering bettors expanded opportunities to engage with the action.

The Competing Horses

This year’s field features eight contenders vying for a $2 million purse. The lineup includes a mix of top favorites and longshots, each bringing their own story to the track:

Journalism: The morning-line favorite at 8-5 odds, starting from post position 7. Fresh off his Preakness Stakes victory, he’s trained by Michael McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli. Journalism is looking to continue his winning streak.
Sovereignty: The Kentucky Derby winner, positioned at post 2 with 2-1 odds. After skipping the Preakness, he’s ready to challenge Journalism in this high-stakes matchup.
Baeza: A strong contender at 4-1 odds, starting from post 6. Trained by John Shirreffs and ridden by Flavien Prat, he’s a name to watch.
Rodriguez: With 6-1 odds, this horse starts from post 3 under the guidance of trainer Bob Baffert and jockey Mike Smith.
Hill Road: Positioned at post 1 with 10-1 odds, he’s trained by Chad Brown and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr.
Crudo: A longshot at 15-1 odds, starting from post 5. He’s trained by Todd Pletcher and ridden by John Velazquez.
Uncaged: Another outsider at 30-1 odds, starting from post 4. He’s also trained by Todd Pletcher, with Luis Saez as his jockey.
Heart of Honor: At 30-1 odds, this horse rounds out the field in post 8. Trained by Jamie Osborne and ridden by Saffie Osborne.

Whether you’re backing the favorites, like Journalism and Sovereignty, or looking for value in the underdogs, this diverse field promises plenty of excitement and betting opportunities.

Horse Odds and Contenders

Favorites and Key Contenders

The 2025 Belmont Stakes presents a tight race among eight talented horses, with Journalism leading as the morning-line favorite at 8-5 odds. As the only horse competing in all three Triple Crown races, Journalism brings both experience and momentum to the field.

Close on his heels is Sovereignty, sitting at 2-1 odds. After winning the Kentucky Derby and skipping the Preakness to stay fresh, Sovereignty is poised to challenge Journalism in what experts are calling a historic showdown. Ed DeRosa captures the excitement:

"This figures to be the most closely bet Belmont Stakes since 1994, when Strodes Creek was +130 against Kentucky Derby winner Go For Gin at +150."

The rematch between these two standout horses has sparked plenty of buzz. Jared DeRossett, a retail sports analyst at TwinSpires, adds:

"It'll likely be Journalism favored, but Sovereignty should be right there. All eyes will be on that rematch, and it should be an excellent race."

For those looking beyond the top two, Baeza offers enticing value at 4-1 odds. With rested legs and a strong pedigree, Baeza could be a game-changer in the final stretch. Meanwhile, Rodriguez rounds out the top contenders at 6-1 odds, bringing early speed and experienced connections to the race.

Further down the odds board, Hill Road (10-1) and Crudo (15-1) present intriguing upset potential, while Uncaged and Heart of Honor (both 30-1) cater to bettors seeking maximum risk for a potentially big reward.

Horse	Odds	Post Position	Key Advantage
Journalism	8-5	7	Preakness winner; only Triple Crown runner
Sovereignty	2-1	2	Kentucky Derby winner; well-rested
Baeza	4-1	6	Fresh legs; strong pedigree
Rodriguez	6-1	3	Early speed; experienced connections
Hill Road	10-1	1	Value play with upset potential
Crudo	15-1	5	Longshot with decent form
Uncaged	30-1	4	High-risk, high-reward pick
Heart of Honor	30-1	8	International appeal; long odds

These odds will shift as race day approaches, depending on how bettors allocate their wagers.

How to Read Odds

If you're new to betting, understanding odds is crucial. As TwinSpires explains:

"Odds are the return you can expect to get if the horse you bet on is successful. It reflects the amount of money bet on a horse; the more money that is invested, the shorter the odds."

Fractional odds, like 8-5 or 2-1, indicate potential profit compared to your stake. For example, a $5 bet at 8-5 odds would return $13 total ($8 profit plus your original $5). On the other hand, a $5 bet on Sovereignty at 2-1 odds would return $15 total ($10 profit plus your stake).

It's important to note that morning-line odds are just an estimate of how the public might bet. Ed Burgart, an official morning line maker, explains:

"The morning line odds don't reflect my preferred selections in a race. My goal as the morning line maker is to predict how the public will wager on a particular race."

As more money is wagered, odds will adjust under the pari-mutuel system, where you're essentially betting against other players rather than a fixed sportsbook. This means the more popular a horse becomes, the shorter its odds will get.

For savvy bettors using platforms like BettorEdge, this dynamic offers opportunities to lock in favorable prices through peer-to-peer wagering. With a minimum bet of just $2, the Belmont Stakes is accessible to everyone, from casual fans to seasoned pros. Tracking real-time odds can help you secure the best value before they change.

While a longshot like Heart of Honor at 30-1 might promise a huge payout, those odds reflect the slim likelihood of an upset. Conversely, Journalism's 8-5 odds signal strong confidence in his chances, though with more modest returns. The close gap between Journalism and Sovereignty underscores just how competitive this year's Belmont Stakes is shaping up to be.

Betting Options and Methods

Traditional Betting vs. Peer-to-Peer Betting

In traditional horse racing betting, pari-mutuel wagering is the standard. This means you're betting against other participants, and the track takes a percentage (usually 15-25%) before distributing the winnings. This "house edge" cuts into your potential returns and limits the payouts.

Peer-to-peer betting, on the other hand, works differently. Platforms like BettorEdge allow you to bet directly with other users, skipping the house cut entirely. This no-vig model offers better odds and higher potential returns, making it an attractive option for events like the Belmont Stakes.

What makes peer-to-peer betting even more appealing is the sense of community it fosters. You can interact with other bettors, share insights, and follow successful players. Plus, you have the freedom to set your own odds, creating a more dynamic and personalized betting experience. For a high-stakes race like the Belmont Stakes, this model not only improves your odds but also brings a more engaging and transparent approach to wagering.

According to research, betting exchanges give users a 40% chance of being profitable, compared to just 2% with traditional sportsbooks. That means peer-to-peer platforms are 20 times more likely to help you come out ahead - a significant advantage when every edge matters in a race as competitive as the Belmont Stakes.

Now that we've covered the betting methods, let's dive into the key types of wagers you can place.

Types of Bets

Straight bets are the foundation of horse racing wagers. These include:

Win bets: Your horse must finish first (available on BettorEdge)
Place bets: Your horse can finish first or second (popular in Horse Racing)
Show bets: Your horse can finish in the top three (popular in Horse Racing)

For example, a $2 win bet at 2-1 odds would return $6 in total.

If you're looking to cover multiple outcomes, across-the-board betting allows you to place win, place, and show bets on the same horse simultaneously. A $2 across-the-board bet costs $6. If your horse wins, you collect on all three bets. If it finishes second, you collect on the place and show bets; and if it finishes third, only the show bet pays out.

For those seeking bigger payouts, exotic bets require more precise predictions.

Exacta: Pick the first and second finishers in the exact order. A $2 exacta costs $2, but you can "box" it for $4, covering both possible finishing orders.
Trifecta: Predict the top three finishers in exact order.
Superfecta: Predict the top four finishers in exact order. A $1 superfecta box with four horses costs $24, but the potential winnings can be substantial.

For example, if you're betting on the Belmont Stakes and want to cover both Journalism and Sovereignty, you could place an exacta box bet for $4. This would pay out regardless of which horse finishes first or second.

Multi-race wagers, like the Daily Double, involve picking winners in consecutive races. Other options, such as Pick 3, Pick 4, and Pick 5, offer a 50-cent base bet. These wagers are affordable yet offer the chance for significant payouts. As FOX Sports' Chris Fallica explains:

"The good thing about the pick three, four and five is that the wager is a 50 cent base."

Bet Type	Base Cost	Example	Potential Return
Win	$2	Sovereignty at 2-1	$6 total
Exacta Box	$4	Journalism/Sovereignty	Varies by odds
Trifecta Box (3 horses)	$12	Top 3 contenders	High payout
Superfecta Box (4 horses)	$24	Top 4 finishers	Very high payout
Pick 3	$0.50	3 consecutive races	Moderate to high

With these betting options in mind, let's explore some tips to help you make informed wagers for the Belmont Stakes.

Belmont Stakes Betting Tips

Keep an eye on the odds as race day approaches. Odds shift based on factors like recent performances, track conditions, and final workouts. The morning-line odds are just a starting point; the real action happens closer to post time.

When evaluating contenders for the Belmont Stakes, consider key factors such as past performance, trainer and jockey records, pedigree, and current form. This year's race, featuring a tight competition between Journalism and Sovereignty, is no exception. Sovereignty's trainer, Bill Mott, shared his thoughts on the field:

"This entire group, if you look at their form and the way they've developed over the course of this year, I think they've made steady progress. It should be an interesting race on Saturday."

Don't dismiss longshots entirely. While favorites like Journalism (8-5) and Sovereignty (2-1) are the most likely winners, longshots can deliver massive payouts if they pull off an upset. Look for factors like favorable track conditions or strong final workouts that could boost their chances.

For larger payouts, consider exotic bets like exactas and trifectas. A key horse strategy can be useful here: choose one horse you feel confident will finish in the top spots, then pair it with multiple other contenders in various combinations. For instance, if you believe Journalism will finish in the top two, you could key him in second place while covering several other horses to win.

Finally, stay flexible on race day. If the public heavily favors one horse, it could create value elsewhere. Also, remember that the Belmont's 1 1/2-mile distance tests stamina more than speed, so prioritize horses that can maintain a strong pace over the longer distance.

Practical Tips for Bettors

Researching Horses and Trainers

When it comes to betting, solid research is the foundation of success. Start by analyzing a horse's current form. Look at metrics like average earnings per race, recent speed ratings, and lifetime win percentages to gauge performance. Interestingly, studies suggest that factors like jockeys, post position, and weight often have less impact than you might expect.

For the Belmont Stakes, pay extra attention to horses with a strong track record on similar surfaces, especially since this is the second consecutive year the race will take place at Saratoga. The 1 1/2-mile distance demands stamina, so prioritize horses that have proven their endurance in past races. Trainer and jockey pairings can also provide valuable clues - some combinations yield better results than others. Don’t forget to review recent workouts, injury reports, and overall fitness, while keeping an eye on track conditions and weather forecasts. All these factors help paint a clearer picture of a horse’s readiness for race day.

By taking the time to dig into these details, you'll be better equipped to make informed and calculated betting decisions.

If you’re looking for one of the best horse racing apps out there for analysis on Belmont Stakes, Kentucky Derby, or daily races at Churchill Downs, Saratoga, Canterbury, or many other tracks; be sure to check out Horse Racing Picks & Hot Tips for all of your horse racing needs.

Risk Management and Bankroll Tips

Managing your bankroll effectively is crucial if you want to stay in the game for the long haul. A good rule of thumb is to have a minimum active bankroll that's at least 50 times your average per-race wager. For example, if you’re planning to bet $20 per race, aim for an active bankroll of at least $1,000. It’s also smart to keep a backup bankroll that’s at least half the size of your active one - this can help cushion the blow of inevitable losing streaks. Serious bettors often divide their bankrolls further, allocating separate funds for straight bets and exotic wagers.

Structured betting is another key to success. Data shows that only 21% of bettors hit their goals, even with favorable odds, so a disciplined approach is essential. Adjust your bet sizes based on your bankroll’s performance - bet more during winning streaks and scale back during losses to preserve your capital. Avoid the temptation to chase losses by increasing your wagers; this strategy usually leads to bigger setbacks. If you’re looking to place larger bets without taking on too much risk, consider pooling funds with friends.

By sticking to these principles, you’ll set yourself up for more consistent results over time.

Using Community Insights

Once you’ve nailed down your research and bankroll strategy, tapping into community insights can take your betting game to the next level. Platforms like BettorEdge offer a peer-to-peer experience where all bets are shared on a social feed, giving you instant access to what others are wagering on. You can follow top bettors through leaderboards that showcase their ROI, win percentages, and streaks over the past week or month. This makes it easy to identify successful bettors and learn from their picks.

Tools like BetMatch filtering allow you to zero in on specific bet types, whether you’re leaning toward safe straight bets or riskier exotic wagers. Community betting also offers a fresh perspective. If the majority of bettors are backing a particular horse, there might be value in going against the crowd and choosing a less popular contender. Professional bettor Rod from Champion Bets sums it up perfectly:

"The biggest misconception in punting is that punting is all about winners. It's not. It's about finding selections that are better odds than what they should be. Well it is if you want to make a profit any way."

Additionally, tipping features encourage seasoned bettors to share their insights, while performance charts and historical data can help you pinpoint which bets have been the most profitable. This collaborative, data-driven approach can sharpen your strategy not just for the Belmont Stakes, but for future Triple Crown races as well.

2025 Belmont Stakes Picks, Predictions and Odds | How to Bet the Belmont | Pony Pundits

Conclusion

The 2025 Belmont Stakes is shaping up to be an electrifying finale to the Triple Crown series, with a much-anticipated rematch between Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness champion Journalism. Journalism enters the race as the 8-5 favorite, while Sovereignty is close behind at 2-1 odds.

This year’s race, held at Saratoga Race Course, features a shortened 1 1/4-mile distance, which could favor horses with strong mid-distance speed. Historically, 42.6% of Belmont winners have been favorites, underscoring the reliability of top picks while leaving room for value in contenders like Baeza (4-1) and Rodriguez (6-1).

When it comes to betting, preparation is everything. A winning strategy combines thorough research, disciplined bankroll management, and insights from the betting community. The tips in this guide are designed to help you make smarter, more informed wagers.

Platforms like BettorEdge are changing the game by offering a peer-to-peer betting experience with no house edge. Their features - like real-time social feeds, leaderboards showcasing top bettors, and the ability to set your own odds - give you a unique advantage. According to BettorEdge, bettors using their platform are 20 times more likely to see profits compared to traditional sportsbooks. Whether you’re betting on favorites or taking a chance on longshots, their no-vig marketplace and community-driven insights can help you navigate Saturday’s 7:04 p.m. ET race with confidence.

Ultimately, long-term success in betting comes down to spotting value opportunities and sticking to a disciplined approach. These principles align perfectly with BettorEdge’s mission to empower bettors ahead of this year’s Belmont Stakes.

FAQs

How will the shorter race distance at the 2025 Belmont Stakes affect speed-focused horses?

The decision to shorten the 2025 Belmont Stakes to 1 1/4 miles at Saratoga is expected to favor horses that thrive on speed. This adjustment plays right into the hands of speed-oriented runners, as horses with strong tactical speed tend to excel at this distance compared to the traditional 1 1/2-mile race.

Saratoga's track history also highlights this trend - horses that stay near the front often have a better shot at success, while those relying on a late charge face a tougher challenge. With their blend of speed and adaptability, horses like Journalism and Sovereignty stand out as strong contenders, perfectly suited for the new race conditions.

What are the benefits of using BettorEdge for betting on the Belmont Stakes?

Using BettorEdge to place bets on the Belmont Stakes offers some standout perks that can elevate your betting experience. Unlike traditional sportsbooks that often take a hefty cut - sometimes as much as 10% - BettorEdge uses a peer-to-peer model with much lower fees, usually around 1-2%. This means more of your winnings stay in your pocket.

What’s more, BettorEdge lets you set your own odds and conditions. This level of flexibility not only gives you greater control but can also lead to more favorable odds, particularly if you're betting on underdogs. The platform also encourages a sense of community by letting you connect with other bettors, exchange tips, and sharpen your strategies. It’s a more interactive and rewarding way to bet on one of horse racing’s premier events.

What should bettors consider when choosing between a favorite like Journalism or a longshot in the Belmont Stakes?

When choosing whether to back a favorite like Journalism or take a gamble on a longshot, there are several important factors to weigh:

Horse Performance: Favorites such as Journalism often show steady, reliable form, making them a safer pick. On the other hand, longshots can deliver higher payouts if they exceed expectations.
Race Conditions: Elements like track surface, weather, and distance can significantly influence outcomes. Horses with a history of performing well under similar conditions might have an advantage.
Betting Value: Longshots are sometimes undervalued by the public, which can create opportunities for sharp bettors to find hidden potential - especially if the horse shows improved fitness or faces favorable conditions.

The key is finding the right balance between payout potential and winning probability. Favorites offer consistency but lower returns, while longshots bring higher risks with the possibility of bigger rewards.