Golden Tempo Wins 2026 Belmont Stakes, Following Historic Kentucky Derby Victory
Golden Tempo wins the 2026 Belmont Stakes, completing a remarkable Triple Crown journey just a month after capturing the Kentucky Derby. The race, held at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, marked the culmination of a historic achievement as the horse secured its place in racing history with a narrow victory over Commandment. Ridden by Jose Ortiz, Golden Tempo’s triumph underscored its dominance in the series and added another chapter to its storied career. This win not only solidified its reputation as a top contender but also highlighted the strategic brilliance of its team.
The Road to the Belmont
Golden Tempo’s path to the 2026 Belmont Stakes was anything but easy. After a dominant performance in the Kentucky Derby, the horse faced the challenge of maintaining its form while adapting to the unique conditions of Saratoga Race Course. The Belmont, traditionally the longest of the Triple Crown races, was shortened to 1 1/4 miles this year due to the temporary track setup, which required the team to adjust their strategy. Despite the change, Golden Tempo showcased resilience and precision, overcoming the field to claim the title.
With odds of 9-2 for the Belmont, Golden Tempo entered the race as a strong favorite. However, the competition was fierce, with Renegade, the Derby runner-up, finishing just behind in third place. The horse’s performance reflected the intense rivalry in the Triple Crown series, where each race is a test of endurance and skill. This victory also marked the third time in the series that a female trainer has led a Triple Crown winner, building on a growing legacy in the sport.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
Golden Tempo’s success was not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for its trainer, Cherie DeVaux. As the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner, DeVaux’s achievement highlighted the increasing presence of women in the male-dominated world of thoroughbred racing. Her journey from Saratoga Springs to the pinnacle of the sport was a testament to perseverance and expertise. This win also followed in the footsteps of Jena Antonucci, who had previously made history by training Archangelo to victory in the 2023 Belmont.
DeVaux’s decision to miss the Preakness Stakes with Golden Tempo allowed the horse to focus on the final leg of the Triple Crown. While this choice meant the team could not claim a sweep of the series, it proved a calculated risk that paid off. The horse’s ability to adapt to the Saratoga course, which was hosting the Belmont for the third consecutive year, demonstrated its versatility. The temporary venue, once home to the iconic Belmont Park, has become a symbol of the sport’s resilience amid challenges like the demolition and rebuilding of the original track.
Golden Tempo’s performance in the Belmont Stakes 2026 also sparked conversations about the future of the Triple Crown. With the race moving to Saratoga for the 2026 edition, the event’s location and logistics have drawn attention. Yet, the horse’s victory reaffirmed that the spirit of the race remains intact, regardless of its setting. As the final leg of the championship, the Belmont has always been a test of endurance, and Golden Tempo met that challenge with determination.
“Golden Tempo’s win is a defining moment in its career and a significant step forward for the entire racing community,” said Cherie DeVaux in a post-race interview. “This Triple Crown journey has been a team effort, and every victory brings us closer to realizing our goals.”
Looking ahead, Golden Tempo’s success in the 2026 Belmont Stakes sets the stage for future challenges. The horse’s performance has already made it a favorite for other prestigious races, and its continued dominance may shape the landscape of horse racing in the coming years. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this victory impacts the sport’s dynamics, especially with the return of the Belmont to its original venue planned for 2027. Golden Tempo’s story is one of persistence, talent, and the breaking of barriers, ensuring its place in the annals of racing history.
