Forte Favored in Day-Before Belmont Stakes Wagering

Despite a 10-week layoff and scratch from the May 6 Kentucky Derby (G1) due to a foot bruise, reigning 2-year-old male champion Forte  remains a popular horse with bettors in early wagering for the June 10 Belmont Stakes (G1).

At 6:40 p.m. ET June 9, the race's 5-2 morning-line favorite was bet down to 2-1 favoritism in day-before wagering for this year's final jewel of the Triple Crown. Angel of Empire  was next in the betting at 7-2 odds, followed by Preakness Stakes (G1) winner National Treasure  at 9-2. Forte's stablemate Tapit Trice  was 6-1.

Forte, 2-for-2 in graded company this year, had $118,693 wagered on him from a win pool of $489,782—representing just a tiny fraction of total betting that will ultimately be wagered.

Will-pays of a $5 minimum double linking the Friday's Belmont Gold Cup Stakes (G2T) won by favored Siskany  and the Belmont also listed Forte with the lowest payoff at $41. Tapit Trice and Angel of Empire were respectively next at $48 and $48.50.

Early Wagering for The Belmont Stakes, as of 6:40 p.m. ET June 9

1. Tapit Shoes, 16-1

2. Tapit Trice, 6-1

3. Arcangelo, 9-1

4. National Treasure, 9-2

5. Il Miracolo, 20-1

6. Forte, 2-1

7. Hit Show, 10-1

8. Angel of Empire, 7-2

9. Red Route One, 12-1