The racing world watched closely as the 158th Belmont Stakes reached a thrilling end at Saratoga Race Course. Golden Tempo won the race, confirming his title as the best 3-year-old of the year. He achieved a remarkable double by winning both the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. Golden Tempo sped down the stretch to take the 2026 Belmont Stakes title.

A Triple Crown Legacy

Golden Tempo did not compete in the Preakness Stakes, so a Triple Crown win was not possible. However, he showed his strength by winning the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga. With this victory, Golden Tempo became the 13th horse to win both the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes.

This win is significant for trainer Cherie DeVaux. Earlier this year, she became the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner, and now she has made history again as the first woman to win multiple Triple Crown races. Cherie has a personal connection to Saratoga Springs, as she was born there and started her training career at the same track where she achieved this important victory.

The Race at a Glance: 2026 Results

Despite the high expectations for the morning-line favorite, Renegade, it was Golden Tempo who seized the day. The race, held at 1 1/4 miles due to the configuration of the Saratoga Race Course, saw a tactical battle that unfolded in front of a capacity crowd.

Official 2026 Belmont Stakes Finishing Order

Note: The remaining field included Growth Equity, Vitruvian Man, Ottinho, and Powershift.

Why Golden Tempo Skipped the Preakness

The decision by DeVaux and the ownership team to bypass the Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park—which was ultimately won by Napoleon Solo—sparked significant debate. However, post-race comments from the trainer highlighted a “horse-first” philosophy. DeVaux noted that the intense demands of the Triple Crown schedule are increasingly difficult for modern athletes, emphasizing that keeping Golden Tempo fresh allowed him to maintain his peak condition for the “Test of the Champion” at Saratoga.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Triple Crown

The 2026 series has ended, and now we look ahead to the future. The Belmont Stakes will return to Belmont Park on Long Island in 2027 after a major redevelopment project is completed.

Fans can watch replays of the 2026 race on major sports networks and official racing sites like NYRA Bets and TwinSpires. Golden Tempo’s legacy is already secure, and he will eventually join the stallion roster at Lane’s End Farm in Kentucky.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who won the 2026 Triple Crown races?

• Kentucky Derby: Golden Tempo

• Preakness Stakes: Napoleon Solo

• Belmont Stakes: Golden Tempo

Where was the 2026 Belmont Stakes held?

The 2026 Belmont Stakes was held at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York, while Belmont Park undergoes renovations.

How can I watch the replay?

You can find the full race replay of the 2026 Belmont Stakes on the official FOX Sports website or through NYRA Bets.

Are you interested in learning more about the upcoming 2027 racing season or the historic career of trainer Cherie DeVaux?