Belmont Stakes Records 3.9 Million Viewers as Sovereignty Claims Triple Crown Victory
The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, saw over 3.8 million viewers on FOX and FS1 as Sovereignty triumphed over Journalism. This marks a 5% increase from last year’s viewership, with peak ratings hitting 5 million viewers. The race, held at Saratoga Race Course, was the most-watched sporting event on Saturday, outperforming major events like the French Open final and WNBA games.
Sovereignty, a 2-1 favorite, showcased remarkable form by overcoming Journalism, the Preakness winner, to claim the Triple Crown. The victory has sparked renewed interest in horse racing, with fans debating ‘what-if’ scenarios regarding Journalism’s potential in the Preakness. This achievement echoes the historic win of Justify in 2018, making Sovereignty only the second horse to complete the Triple Crown in over a decade.
The race also drew attention to the broader impact of the event on sports viewership, with FOX Sports noting the competitive landscape of Saturday’s programming. Despite the race’s success, the broader implications for horse racing, including its marketability and fan engagement, remain under discussion. The victory of Sovereignty has positioned it as a key player in the sport, with its owners and trainers celebrating the monumental achievement.
FOX Sports highlighted that the Belmont Stakes was the most-watched sporting event of the day, surpassing several high-profile events in the sports calendar. The race’s success not only boosted viewership for the networks but also highlighted the enduring appeal of horse racing in the US. The event also saw a significant increase in digital engagement, with social media platforms buzzing with discussions about the race and its implications for the sport of horse racing.
The victory of Sovereignty has not only captured the attention of sports fans but also the media, with multiple outlets covering the race’s significance. The race’s outcome has sparked debates around the competitiveness of the Triple Crown, with many questioning whether Journalism’s performance in the Preakness could have changed the outcome of the Belmont Stakes. The race has also raised questions about the future of the Triple Crown and the potential for more horses to achieve this feat.
The win by Sovereignty has been a defining moment in the horse racing calendar, with its owners and trainers expressing pride in the achievement. The victory has also been celebrated by fans and analysts who have been following the race closely, with many lauding the horse’s form and strategy in the final stretch. The event has not only been a triumph for Sovereignty but also a boost for the sport of horse racing in the United States, with many hoping that this victory will spark renewed interest and investment in the sport.