The Belmont Stakes, often dubbed “The Test of Champions,” is set for a bit of a twist this year. In 2026, the prestigious race will take place at Saratoga Race Course rather than its usual venue, Belmont Park. This change in location means the race will be shortened by a quarter-mile, mirroring the 1 1/4-mile distance of the Kentucky Derby. Golden Tempo, who claimed victory at the Derby and opted out of the Preakness, emerges as the prime contender in the 2026 Belmont Stakes lineup.
Renegade, who secured the runner-up spot at the Derby, currently leads the 2026 Belmont Stakes odds at 2-1. Following closely is Chief Wallabee at 3-1, trained by Bill Mott, last year’s victorious trainer, while Golden Tempo stands as the third favorite with 9-2 odds. Before placing any wagers on the 2026 Belmont Stakes, it’s wise to consult predictions and top bets from Jody Demling, a seasoned expert at SportsLine.
Demling, a well-respected figure in the horse racing community, has an impressive track record, having accurately predicted the top three finishers at the 2025 Kentucky Derby. His insights have also nailed 11 of the past 22 Preakness winners and correctly forecasted the Belmont Stakes champion four times in the last eight years, including a precise exacta in 2022 with Mo Donegal and Nest. Those who have followed his advice on horse racing betting platforms have seen significant returns.
Now, as the 2026 Belmont Stakes field is finalized, Demling has unveiled his betting strategies and predictions, which are available at SportsLine. Head over to SportsLine for his expert insights.
Top 2026 Belmont Stakes predictions
In a surprising twist from Demling’s analysis, Golden Tempo does not feature in his Belmont Stakes selections. Despite being the offspring of the Hall of Fame thoroughbred Curlin, who fell short at the 2007 Belmont, Golden Tempo’s odds are less favorable this year. Curlin, like Golden Tempo, had previously won a Triple Crown race but couldn’t clinch victory at the Belmont. With Golden Tempo failing to secure wins in his two races preceding the Derby, his chances seem dimmer.
Golden Tempo may have capitalized on fortuitous circumstances at the Kentucky Derby, but can he replicate that success? Demling remains skeptical, citing the unfavorable odds. “Indeed, the Derby winner is an impressive horse and delivered a remarkable performance at Churchill Downs,” Demling shared with SportsLine. “However, I doubt the race setup will mirror that of the Derby, where conditions favored a deep closer.” Check out SportsLine to discover which horses are worth backing.
How to make 2026 Belmont Stakes picks, bets
Demling is especially high on an epic longshot who “will make a big jump” to win it all. Anyone who backs this sleeper pick could hit it big. Demling is sharing which horse it is, along with his entire projected 2026 Belmont Stakes leaderboard, over at SportsLine.
Which horse wins the Belmont Stakes 2026, and which stunning longshot is a must-back? Check out the latest 2026 Belmont Stakes odds below, then visit SportsLine to see Demling’s picks for the Belmont Stakes, all from the expert who has nailed four of the last eight winners.
