Although Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty did not compete at the Preakness Stakes, that did not stop the race from providing one of the most exhilarating finishes in recent memory.
Pre-race favorite Journalism headed into the final straightaway several lengths behind leader Gosger, but even after getting sandwiched between two other horses and nearly bumping the inside railing on the final turn, Journalism found an extra gear and blazed past everyone to win the Preakness by less than a length.
It was the type of finish we see in movies, and it begs the question: ‘Can Journalism pull it off again?’ Journalism was the pre-race favorite at the Kentucky Derby as well, but wound up as the runner-up to Sovereignty. With Sovereignty expected to compete at the Belmont Stakes, will Journalism finish in second yet again, or did the win at Pimlico unlock something in that horse? After all, Journalism showcased exceptional stamina in the win, and the Belmont Stakes is traditionally the longest race of the Triple Crown.
Here’s when the Belmont Stakes will run.
When is the 2025 Belmont Stakes?
The 157th running of the Belmont Stakes will take place on Saturday, June 7 at 6:50 p.m. ET. The race will actually be shorter than the usual 1.5 miles though. The race will be hosted by the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York, which boasts a smaller dirt track.
That change in length could prove a vital change that affects any horse’s chances of winning, particularly Journalism’s after the Preakness winner displayed tremendous stamina in its win at Pimlico. This year’s Belmont Stakes, will be 1.25 miles, just 1/16th of a mile longer than the Preakness Stakes.