Belmont Stakes could return in 2026; Breeders’ Cup in 2026 possible

In 1905, Belmont Park opened as the most elaborate racetrack in America, one modeled after the grand racecourses of Europe. A century and then some later, Belmont Park’s current $455 million renovation, also modeled after some of the most iconic racetracks in the world, is expected to be completed in 2026 with the ability to host the 2026 Belmont Stakes (G1) and perhaps the Breeders’ Cup.

The new renderings of the site, and an updated timeline, were unveiled this week, with the most dramatic change a new grandstand that is a complete departure from the 1.25 million square foot brick and ivy structure that replaced the original building in 1968.

Designed by Populus, the architectural firm that designed the remodel of, among others, Ascot, Epsom, Queensland (Australia) and Sha Tin (Hong Kong), the roof of the new, 275,000 square foot grandstand was inspired by ”a ribbon, the traditional symbol of victory,” according to the firm, which also designed Belmont Park’s newer neighbor, the UBS Arena, the home of the New York Islanders NHL team.

The design for the new grandstand features five levels, with seating for 7,500 guests divided among club and dining spaces, food and beverage outlets, private suites and indoor/outdoor experiences. The smaller building will increase the green space around it from 6.94 acres to 36.45 acres.

“The new Belmont Park will be a thoroughly modern racing and entertainment facility that will take its place on the global stage among iconic venues like Ascot, Longchamp, and The Curragh,” said Marc Holiday, chairman of the New York Racing Association’s board of directors.

The demolition of the current building will start this month, with the new building’s structural concrete set to be installed in early 2025. The project also includes the renovation of the 1 1/2-mile main track and two turf courses – as well as the installation of a 1-mile synthetic surface. The synthetic surface would be used for scheduled turf races that are rained off and for some or all of winter racing beginning in 2027.

Once completed, Belmont Park will host all downstate racing. Racing will be held at Aqueduct Racetrack through the spring of 2026, with the Belmont Stakes to be held at Saratoga Race Course this year and next.

The details were released by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, who last year approved the $455 loan to finance the project.

“The redevelopment of Belmont Park is a critical investment in one of New York’s most historic sporting venues,” Hochul said in a news release. “The new facility will support year-round racing, thousands of new jobs for Long Islanders, and provide an enhanced experience for attending the iconic Belmont Stakes for generations to come.”