NYRA Optimistic About Belmont Hosting 2026 Breeders' Cup

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) is optimistic that Belmont Park will be ready to host the 2026 Breeders' Cup, with construction of the new facilities proceeding on schedule. Officials revealed plans for a "modified" Belmont Stakes to take place at the venue that same year.

According to a report by BloodHorse, NYRA leaders are confident in their ability to host the prestigious Breeders' Cup World Championships—an annual series of Grade I Thoroughbred horse races organised by Breeders' Cup Limited since 1982. Originally a single-day event from its inception in 1984, the event expanded to two days starting in 2007, held exclusively in the U.S. except for the 1996 races at Woodbine Racetrack in Canada.

During a recent meeting of the New York State Franchise Oversight Board, Glen Kozak, NYRA’s executive vice president of operations and capital projects, indicated that the association would explore holding the Belmont Stakes at the track in 2026, provided it meets the necessary standards.

This year, the Belmont Stakes takes place at Saratoga and is scheduled to return there next year due to the ongoing $455 million redevelopment project at Belmont Park. John Krush, NYRA's project executive overseeing the renovation, confirmed that construction is on track for a fall racing opening at Belmont Park on September 11, 2026.