Breeders' Cup returning to Belmont in 2027 after gap of more than 20 years while next year's venue is also confirmed

Belmont Park will host the Breeders' Cup for the first time in more than 20 years after it was announced as the venue for the prestigious meeting in 2027.

The New York track will stage the championships for the fifth time but the first since 2005. It was also the host in 1990, 1995 and 2001, when Tiznow denied Sakhee by a nose in an epic Breeders' Cup Classic.

Keeneland was announced as the venue for the 2026 Breeders' Cup. The Kentucky track will stage the races for the fourth time, having last done so in 2022.

Drew Fleming, Breeders' Cup Limited's president and CEO, said: "The Breeders’ Cup, Keeneland and Belmont share many core values, including a steadfast commitment to excellence and thoroughbred racing, and there's no better way to showcase that partnership than through hosting the world championships at these iconic venues in 2026 and 2027.

American Pharoah wins the Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland in 2015Credit: Rob Carr (Getty Images)

"Enhanced by their latest capital improvements, both venues, each with their own unique legacy, will set the stage for our thrilling two-day festival that celebrates the pinnacle of racing."

Belmont is undergoing a $455 million redevelopment, which includes the main dirt track and the two turf courses being renovated as well as the addition of an all-weather synthetic surface.

David O'Rourke, the New York Racing Association's president and CEO, said: "A new Belmont is taking shape. New York's racing fans and participants have longed to host this event since it was last held there in 2005. We thank the Breeders' Cup for making that a reality."

Keeneland's president and CEO Shannon Arvin said: "Keeneland is honoured to host the Breeders’ Cup in 2026 and we’re thrilled to share this global racing celebration with fans from all over the world.

"Keeneland and Breeders’ Cup share a strong commitment to showcasing the very best of racing and we look forward to helping deliver another spectacular event."

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