The Triple Crown is one of the most esteemed achievements in the world of sports, particularly in American horse racing. This illustrious title can only be claimed by a three-year-old Thoroughbred that wins three major races in a single season: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes.
The term “Triple Crown” was first popularized in the 1930s by Charles Hatton, a columnist for the Daily Racing Form, who referred to these three key races collectively. Despite a decline in the popularity of horse racing in recent years, the Triple Crown remains highly prestigious, with only 13 horses having claimed this remarkable title throughout history. Notable winners include Sir Barton (1919), Secretariat (1973), American Pharoah (2015), and Justify (2018), with American Pharoah and Justify being the only living Triple Crown champions as of 2024.
Between the victories of Gallant Fox in 1930 and Citation in 1948, there was an impressive average of a Triple Crown winner every two and a half years. However, after this era, a significant gap of 25 years ensued, heightening the allure of achieving this remarkable feat. It wasn’t until Secretariat’s victory in 1973 that the excitement was rekindled, followed by wins from Seattle Slew and Affirmed in the late 1970s. American Pharoah’s victory in 2015 marked a new chapter, followed closely by Justify’s triumph in 2018.
The upcoming Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, is set to take place on June 7, 2025, at 7:04 p.m. ET. With a rich history behind it, the Triple Crown continues to capture the imagination of racing fans and serves as a testament to the extraordinary skill and determination of the horses and their connections. The ongoing quest for this elusive title brings hope and excitement for future races, as both fans and competitors eagerly await the next contender that may rise to join this esteemed list of champions.