Pick Pony

The 2026 Belmont Stakes is the 158th running of the final Triple Crown leg and will again be held at Saratoga Race Course, anchoring a five-day festival of top-class racing. This beginner’s guide explains what makes the race unique in 2026, how the festival works, and how new fans can enjoy the betting and live experience.

Preakness winner Napoleon Solo (44) has rejoined the top tier of the 3-year-old division with his forwardly placed Laurel score and now targets the Haskell, where his tactical speed and improving figures could make him a major summer force despite some lingering questions about his finishing kick.

KAS Stable paid $2.1 million for a Flightline colt out of Breeders' Cup winner Bar of Gold at the Fasig-Tipton Midlantic May sale, as agent Pedro Lanz backed the “real” hype surrounding the champion’s first crop. The high-priced juvenile will race in the United States, with connections still to choose a trainer.