Belmont Stakes 2026 at Saratoga Race Course: Best bets, exotics, ‘Pick 5’ for the Grade 1 stakes races
Belmont Stakes 2026 at Saratoga Race Course: Strategic Picks for the Grade 1 Stakes Races
Belmont Stakes 2026 at Saratoga Race - The 2026 Belmont Stakes will be the last of three consecutive years hosted at Saratoga Race Course, the iconic venue for horse racing. After years of renovations at Belmont Park, the prestigious Triple Crown event has temporarily shifted to The Spa. This year’s races mark the final chapter of this unique arrangement, with the event set to return to its traditional home in 2027. Despite the absence of a Triple Crown winner—due to Golden Tempo’s decision to skip the Preakness Stakes and Napoleon Solo’s omission from the Belmont lineup—the Saratoga schedule remains a focal point for racing enthusiasts. As one of the five most significant horse racing days annually, Saratoga continues to draw attention with its array of high-stakes races, including the Pick 5, which promises exciting opportunities for bettors.
Key Factors Shaping the 2026 Belmont Stakes Day
While the Triple Crown may not have a triumphant champion this year, the Saratoga Race Course still offers a compelling slate of Grade 1 races. The Pick 5, a popular betting format, combines five races into one wager, providing a unique chance to capitalize on multiple winners. For this year’s event, the focus is on Races 9 through 13, each with its own set of contenders and dynamics. Here, I outline my top selections, emphasizing their track records, form, and potential to excel in these high-profile contests.
Strategic Selections for the Pick 5
Among the standout entries is Governor Sam , who carries 12-1 morning-line odds. His positioning in the first slot, combined with a history of strong performances at Saratoga, makes him an attractive option. A sprinter with a proven track record, Governor Sam has demonstrated consistent speed, finishing in the top three in his last three starts at The Spa. His ability to exploit the 5.5-furlong distance, where he has recorded four wins, one second, and one third, further supports his viability. Notably, he has been the betting favorite in 10 of his 14 career races, including three Grade 1 events. This combination of form and favorable odds positions him as a logical choice for the first leg of the Pick 5.
Another horse to consider is Twenty Six Black , also listed at 12-1. Trained by Horacio De Paz, this entry has shown promise in both sprint and longer-distance races. With two wins and three seconds in seven career races at The Spa, Twenty Six Black has consistently performed well in the 5.5-furlong category. Last year, he achieved a remarkable feat by posting two 100-Beyer speed figures, which would be more than enough to claim victory in the Jaipur. His versatility and strong statistical profile make him a valuable play in the second race of the Pick 5.
Solitude Dude (6-1) presents a different narrative. Though he is not the top contender, his 97 Beyer speed figure ranks him among the top performers in this field. This horse has shown an uncanny ability to adapt to sprint conditions, with a perfect 4-0 record in such races. His recent performance in the Woody Stephens, where he has recorded blistering workouts, adds to his appeal. While his longest price was $3.60 at the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth—where he finished third—his transition to shorter distances has yielded impressive results. The key to his success lies in his ability to thrive in sprints, making him a solid mid-tier selection.
Journalism (5-2) has drawn attention for its late-speed capabilities. Despite a third-place finish in the Grade 2 Oaklawn in his 2026 debut, the horse’s performance was strong, falling short only to the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner, White Abarrio, and the 2025 Kentucky Derby victor, Sovereignty. Journalism’s recent consistency is highlighted by its 101+ Beyer speed figures in five consecutive races, a testament to its reliability. This season, the horse has been the betting favorite for all three Triple Crown races, a sign of its competitiveness. Its late-speed edge, paired with the presence of Knightsbridge (who holds the fastest early speed in the field), creates a compelling partnership. Journalism’s ability to capitalize on the closing stretch could make it a dark horse in this race.
Finally, Deterministic (7-2) offers a blend of experience and recent form. With Kendrick Carmouche as his jockey, Deterministic has been a standout performer in Saratoga’s summer meets. Carmouche’s success with the horse includes four consecutive victories, with notable wins in the Grade 1 Fort Marcy and the 2025 Grade 1 Four Star Dave. These results, coupled with a strong record at Saratoga, underscore Deterministic’s potential. The horse’s current form, bolstered by its dominance in sprints, makes it a reliable bet for the fifth race in the Pick 5.
Uncovering Hidden Value in the Field
While the top contenders dominate the spotlight, there are also horses that warrant closer examination. Commandment (6-1) is a particularly intriguing entry, despite its fourth consecutive jockey change. The Brad Cox trainee has shown resilience, maintaining a 6-1 morning-line price in the Kentucky Derby and a history of strong odds in previous races. Commandment’s four-race winning streak before the Derby, including a victory in the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth and the Grade 1 Florida Derby, highlights its potential. The horse’s performance against the Belmont’s second-betting choice, #3 Chief Wallabe, in the Florida Derby adds credibility to its current odds. Its 101 Beyer speed figure further supports its competitiveness in the field.
"CHERIE DEVAUX REFLECTS ON MAKING KENTUCKY DERBY HISTORY AS FIRST FEMALE TRAINER TO WIN THE RACE"
For those interested in the broader racing landscape, Cherie Devaux’s historic victory at the Kentucky Derby in 2025 as the first female trainer to claim the title is a testament to the evolving nature of the sport. Her achievement underscores the increasing diversity and expertise in horse racing, adding an extra layer of significance to the 2026 Belmont Stakes. While Devaux’s focus may not be on the 2026 races, her presence in the industry highlights the talent and innovation that continue to shape the sport’s future.
Each of these selections brings a unique perspective to the 2026 Belmont Stakes Day. From Governor Sam’s favorable odds to Journalism’s late-speed advantage, the field is rich with opportunities for bettors. The Pick 5 format allows for strategic betting, combining multiple races into one wager. By analyzing each horse’s strengths and weaknesses, bettors can make informed decisions that align with their risk tolerance and confidence in the horses’ abilities.
As the races approach, the interplay between track conditions, jockey performance, and horse form becomes even more critical. Saratoga’s reputation as a top-tier venue ensures that the races will be competitive, with the potential for upsets. The 2026 Belmont Stakes Day is not just about selecting favorites but also about identifying horses that can perform under pressure and capitalize on their strengths. With careful consideration and a deep understanding of the field, bettors can navigate the Pick 5 with confidence, turning each race into a chance to secure a win.
Conclusion: The Road to Victory
The 2026 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course represents a unique opportunity for horse racing fans and bettors alike. Despite the absence of a Triple Crown winner, the event’s high-profile races and the depth of talent in the field ensure a thrilling experience. The strategic approach to selecting horses, whether through favorable odds, recent form, or unique advantages like speed and jockey partnerships, will play a crucial role in determining success. As the races unfold, the potential for unexpected outcomes remains high, making the 2026 Belmont Stakes Day a must-watch for all who follow the sport. Whether betting on favorites or hoping for upsets, the excitement of the Pick 5 and the Grade 1 races promises a memorable chapter in the history of horse racing.