The road to Triple Crown glory continued on May 17, 2025, with the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes—a historic milestone that brought both drama and clarity to this year’s championship trail. Held at Pimlico Race Course, the middle jewel of the Triple Crown offered critical insights into the emerging shape of the Belmont Stakes field.
Journalism’s electrifying come-from-behind victory captivated fans and reshaped the narrative surrounding this year’s crop of 3-year-olds. As the racing world shifts its gaze toward Belmont Park, the implications of the Preakness loom large, influencing both betting markets and the strategic outlook for contenders chasing glory in the sport’s ultimate test of stamina.
Reviewing the Preakness Stakes 2025
The 150th Preakness Stakes delivered a compelling second act to the Triple Crown series, highlighted by Journalism’s impressive come-from-behind victory with Umberto Rispoli as jockey and Michael W. McCarthy for trainer. This pivotal race, a challenging 1 3/16-mile contest, not only crowned a new champion but also provided crucial insights into the stamina and tactical abilities of the participating horses.
While Journalism’s win solidified his position as a top contender, the performances of other runners, both strong finishers and those who faltered, offered valuable data points for handicappers and fans looking ahead to the final and longest leg of the Triple Crown. The outcome of the Preakness Stakes directly shapes the early possibilities for the Belmont Stakes. Journalism’s demonstrated stamina and competitive spirit make him a primary contender for the mile-and-a-half Belmont.
Horses with strong closing efforts or tactical versatility in the Preakness also emerge as potential Belmont challengers. Conversely, those who struggled at Pimlico may face an even greater test over Belmont’s demanding distance, influencing their 2025 odds for betting and perceived chances.
The Preakness serves as a vital form indicator, separating potential Belmont contenders from those less likely to endure the Triple Crown’s ultimate stamina challenge.
Early Look at the 2025 Belmont Stakes
Journalism’s impressive come-from-behind victory in the 150th Preakness Stakes on May 17, 2025, immediately established him as a leading contender for the Belmont Stakes.
This challenging 1 3/16-mile race provided crucial insights into the stamina and tactical capabilities of the Triple Crown hopefuls, separating those with the potential to handle the Belmont’s longer distance from those who may struggle. The performances of other Preakness runners, both strong finishers and those who faltered, offer valuable early indicators for handicappers assessing the Belmont field.
The Preakness results directly influenced the early Belmont Stakes landscape. Journalism’s demonstrated stamina positions him as a key prospect for the mile-and-a-half race. Horses exhibiting strong closing speed or tactical adaptability at Pimlico also emerge as likely Belmont contenders. Conversely, those who struggled in the Preakness face increased doubts regarding their ability to handle the Belmont’s demanding length.
Beyond the Preakness winner, other contenders will shape the Belmont Stakes betting. Strong Preakness finishers like Gosger and Sandman, and Kentucky Derby runners who skipped the Preakness like Sovereignty and Baeza, will enter the Belmont conversation. Their prior performances and perceived stamina will contribute to a competitive field vying in the “Test of the Champion,” making the Preakness a vital, though not definitive, predictor for the final jewel of the Triple Crown.
Dark Horses for the Belmont Stakes
As the Triple Crown trail culminates in the demanding Belmont Stakes, the focus often narrows to the top finishers of the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. However, astute handicappers know that the “Test of the Champion” can often throw a curveball, rewarding horses who might have been overlooked in the earlier legs. These are longshots with the potential to defy expectations over the Belmont’s unique track.
One such intriguing prospect for the 2025 Belmont is Heart of Honor. Despite a troubled start in the Preakness, his perseverance for fifth place hinted at untapped stamina. His earlier form in longer international races suggests he could thrive over the Belmont’s mile and a quarter, especially with a cleaner break.
Another to watch is American Promise. While not a standout in the Preakness, his proven ability to close in longer races could benefit him from a fast early pace in the Belmont, potentially outrunning his likely generous odds.
The allure of pedigree also plays a crucial role. Clever Again, a son of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, possesses the genetic predisposition for stamina. He could surprise many if he can find his stride over the extended distance.
Finally, watch any “new shooters” or horses who strategically skipped the Derby and Preakness, targeting the Belmont with fresh legs and stamina-rich pedigrees. These overlooked contenders could be poised to upset the more heavily raced favorites in the ultimate test of endurance.
Final Words
As the dust settles from a memorable 150th Preakness Stakes, the spotlight now turns to Belmont Park and the final, most demanding leg of the Triple Crown. Journalism’s decisive performance at Pimlico cements his status as a leading contender, but the Belmont Stakes is notorious for rewriting expectations.
From rising stars like Heart of Honor and American Promise to fresh-faced challengers waiting in the wings, the field promises to be as unpredictable as it is competitive. With stamina, strategy, and timing all coming to the forefront, the 2025 Belmont Stakes is shaping to be a fitting finale to a Triple Crown season rich with talent, surprises, and the enduring thrill of possibility.
