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The Belmont Stakes has always been known as the “Test of the Champion.” This year, it promises something even bigger. Two of the biggest names in horse racing, Sovereignty and Journalism, could meet again for a much-anticipated rematch after their thrilling battle in the Kentucky Derby. Now, with the Belmont just weeks away, the racing world is waiting to see if they’ll line up side by side once again.
In this article, let’s take a closer look at both horses, revisit their past showdown, and explore what to expect in the 2025 Belmont Stakes.
The Best of Sovereignty
Sovereignty heads to Belmont with one of the strongest resumes in the field. He first made headlines with a five-length victory in the Grade III Street Sense Stakes at Churchill Downs last October. That performance confirmed what many already expected. Sovereignty had the speed and stamina to handle bigger stages. His late-race power has become his trademark, especially in longer distances.
The biggest win of his career came in the 2025 Kentucky Derby. Coming from the back of the pack, he surged past Journalism in the final strides to win by a length and a half. He crossed the finish line in 2:02.31 on a muddy track. That result gave his owners at Godolphin their first Derby trophy. With six starts, three wins, and two runner-up finishes, Sovereignty has earned over $3.6 million.
The Best of Journalism
Journalism enters the Belmont Stakes with momentum after a hard-fought win in the 2025 Preakness Stakes. He recovered from an early bump and rallied from behind to seize the lead in the final strides at Pimlico. That result showed a new dimension to his racing style, proving he can finish as well as he starts. His connections believe this versatility makes him a serious threat at Belmont.
Before that victory, Journalism pushed Sovereignty to the limit in the Kentucky Derby. He controlled the pace from the start and held the lead until Sovereignty surged past in the final strides. While he finished second that day, he returned to form quickly with his Preakness win. His seven-race record stands at four wins and two seconds, with career earnings approaching the $3 million mark.
Recall the 2023 Showdown
Sovereignty and Journalism first met in the 2023 Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland. Journalism entered as the favorite after two easy wins earlier that season. Sovereignty, still a maiden at the time, was not considered a top threat. That changed quickly when the two went head-to-head down the stretch. Journalism held on by a neck, but Sovereignty’s closing speed impressed many observers that day.
The narrow finish marked the start of a rivalry that has followed them ever since. Racing fans began comparing their styles and predicting future clashes. Both horses went on to build strong records, setting up expectations for a possible rematch in major stakes races. Their paths finally crossed again in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, where Sovereignty turned the tables.
Will It Be A Rematch This Belmont 2025?
All signs point to another meeting between Sovereignty and Journalism at Belmont Park. Both horses have been officially listed among the expected entries for the 2025 Belmont Stakes. Race organizers confirmed earlier this week that both camps have secured travel and stall arrangements. Barring any last-minute changes, the stage appears set for these two stars to face off once again.
Sovereignty’s team believes the longer 1½-mile distance will work in their favor. They have kept the colt fresh since the Kentucky Derby to make sure he arrives at Belmont in top condition. Journalism’s camp, in contrast, sees the race as a chance to take back control. Trainer Brad Cox has kept his horse active, running in the Peter Pan Stakes earlier this month, where Journalism posted an easy victory.
Betting Tips
As of now, official odds for the 2025 Belmont Stakes have not been released. The post-position draw is scheduled for June 2, 2025, and odds are expected to follow shortly after. In the meantime, bettors can keep an eye on reputable listings like FanDuel odds, which will reflect the latest pricing once officially posted, or check FOX Sports, the event’s official broadcast partner, for race coverage and updates.
It’s also advisable to consider the horses’ past performances and racing styles. Sovereignty’s strong closing speed makes him a potential candidate for win or place bets, while Journalism’s early pace could be advantageous in exacta or trifecta bets. Additionally, a quinella bet, which requires selecting the top two finishers in any order, might be a safer option if both horses are expected to perform well.
Focus on the Uncertainty
The Belmont Stakes often delivers surprising outcomes, and this year feels no different. Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness Stakes winner Journalism have both proven they belong at the top, but only one can cross the finish line first. Racing fans now turn their attention to Belmont Park, where the final chapter of their rivalry could soon be written.
