The Belmont Stakes is traditionally run at a distance of 1.5 miles (12 furlongs or about 2,414 meters), making it the longest of the Triple Crown races and one of the longest first-class dirt races in the United States

. This distance has been standard since 1926, except for some exceptions such as in 2020 and during temporary relocations. However, in recent years, due to the race being held at Saratoga Race Course instead of Belmont Park, the distance has been shortened to 1.25 miles (10 furlongs). For example, the 2024 and 2025 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga are run at this shorter distance due to track size and regulatory approvals

. In summary:

• Usual distance at Belmont Park: 1.5 miles (12 furlongs)
• Recent distance at Saratoga Race Course (2024, 2025): 1.25 miles (10 furlongs)

The race typically takes about 2.5 minutes to complete at the 1.5-mile distance, with the record held by Secretariat at 2:24