The countdown to the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes is officially underway, and early betting markets already have two clear favorites. Renegade enters as the current 2 to 1 favorite, while Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo sits close behind at 3 to 1 as horse racing fans prepare for one of the biggest races of the year.
The Belmont Stakes will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Saratoga Race Course in New York. This marks the third straight year that the famous race will be held at Saratoga while Belmont Park continues its large-scale renovation project. The temporary venue change has once again altered the race distance, creating a different challenge for this year's contenders.
Saratoga Changes Continue to Shape the Belmont Stakes
Traditionally known as the "Test of the Champion," the Belmont Stakes is usually contested over 1½ miles. However, because Saratoga Race Course has a different track layout, the race will remain at 1¼ miles in 2026.
That distance is identical to the Kentucky Derby and could significantly impact race strategy. Horses that already proved themselves at the Derby distance may have an advantage compared to runners that would normally benefit from the longer Belmont test.
The shortened distance has become one of the biggest storylines surrounding the race since the Belmont moved away from its historic home. Racing officials have confirmed that Saratoga will host the event for a third consecutive year before Belmont Park is expected to return in future seasons.
Early Scratches Shake Up the Betting Market
The Belmont Stakes picture changed dramatically after several notable horses were officially scratched from consideration.
Potente, Chip Honcho, and So Happy have all been removed from the projected field. Their departures have altered pace projections and shifted betting attention toward the remaining contenders.
With several respected runners no longer expected to compete, the odds board has tightened considerably around the top favorites. Bettors and analysts are now focusing on a smaller group of leading contenders as anticipation builds toward race week.
The official post-position draw and morning-line odds are scheduled to be announced on Monday, June 1, at 5:00 p.m. ET, which could trigger another major movement in the betting market.
Renegade and Golden Tempo Lead the Field
Much of the attention is centered on a highly anticipated rematch between Renegade and Golden Tempo.
Renegade narrowly missed victory in the Kentucky Derby and has been installed as the early favorite. Trained by Todd Pletcher, the colt has consistently impressed bettors and analysts with his strong performances throughout the season. Many expect him to be one of the most heavily backed horses when betting officially opens.
Golden Tempo, trained by Cherie DeVaux, arrives with enormous momentum after capturing the Kentucky Derby. The colt skipped the Preakness Stakes to remain fresh for Belmont preparation, a decision that has generated plenty of discussion throughout the racing community. His dramatic Derby victory transformed him into one of the biggest stars in the three-year-old division.
Chief Wallabee and Other Challengers Look to Upset the Favorites
While Renegade and Golden Tempo dominate headlines, several other runners could make the race far more competitive.
Chief Wallabee enters at 9 to 2 odds after a strong fourth-place finish in the Kentucky Derby. Trainer Bill Mott already owns a recent Belmont victory and will be hoping for another major success at Saratoga.
Commandment is listed at 6 to 1 despite finishing seventh in the Derby. The Brad Cox trainee remains highly respected because of his previous graded stakes achievements.
Emerging Market, trained by Chad Brown, stands at 8 to 1 and is targeting the Belmont directly after gaining experience against elite competition earlier this season.
Powershift is an intriguing 12 to 1 option after an impressive maiden victory on Kentucky Derby weekend. Growth Equity, another Chad Brown runner, enters at 15 to 1 following a recent Grade 3 Peter Pan Stakes victory.
Further down the board, Ocelli is available at 20 to 1 and remains the only horse expected to compete in all three Triple Crown races this season. Ottinho also sits at 20 to 1 after a strong runner-up effort in the Blue Grass Stakes. Vitruvian Man rounds out the projected field as a 30 to 1 outsider.
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Current Belmont Stakes 2026 Early Odds
The projected field currently includes ten probable starters heading into the final week before the race.
Renegade leads the market at 2 to 1, followed by Golden Tempo at 3 to 1. Chief Wallabee is priced at 9 to 2, while Commandment sits at 6 to 1. Emerging Market follows at 8 to 1, with Powershift at 12 to 1 and Growth Equity at 15 to 1. Ocelli and Ottinho are both listed at 20 to 1, while Vitruvian Man is the longest shot at 30 to 1.
These odds remain unofficial and could change significantly once post positions are assigned and final wagering activity increases.
Belmont Stakes 2026 Sets Up a Fascinating Finale
The final leg of the Triple Crown is shaping up to be one of the most competitive races of the season. The rematch between Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo and runner-up Renegade provides a compelling headline, while several talented challengers are waiting for their opportunity to break through.
With Saratoga once again hosting the event, a shortened race distance, and the official draw still ahead, plenty can change before the horses enter the starting gate on June 6. For now, Renegade and Golden Tempo remain the names to watch as the road to the 2026 Belmont Stakes reaches its final stretch.
Also Read: Belmont Stakes 2026 Set for Huge Triple Crown Finale at Saratoga