Belmont Stakes 2026: Panamanian jockey Luis Sáez and 'Powershift' make their mark in a big race for 'Golden Tempo' and Cherie Devaux

Panamanian jockey Luis Sáez made his presence felt at the 158th Belmont Stakes, the third jewel of the U.S. Triple Crown, riding 'Powershift' for Repole Stable. Sáez guided the horse to an early lead, maintaining command through the first half of the race held at Saratoga on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

However, 'Powershift' could not hold its position into the final stretch. 'Golden Tempo,' expertly ridden by José Ortiz, surged through the middle of the track to claim victory with a time of 2:03.49. 'Commandment,' 'Renegade,' and 'Chief Wallabe' secured the second through fourth places, respectively, while Sáez's 'Powershift' ultimately finished in ninth position.

Despite the final placement, Sáez's performance aboard 'Powershift' was noted for its professional aggression and intelligence. He bravely shouldered the responsibility of guiding the horse in a high-stakes race that concluded the U.S. Triple Crown competition. The race covered a distance of one and a quarter miles and offered $2 million in prize money.

The victory was a major triumph for 'Golden Tempo,' jockey Ortiz, and trainer Cherie Devaux. This win followed their victory in the Kentucky Derby on May 2, marking Devaux's second Triple Crown race win within a month. 'Golden Tempo' had skipped the Preakness Stakes to allow for extra rest after its Derby win.

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Although 'Powershift' could not sustain the pace in the decisive meters, Luis Sáez's ride once again demonstrated his professional aggressiveness and tremendous intelligence on the reins, bravely taking on the weight of a highly relevant race that sealed the competition for the U.S. Triple Crown.