In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the horse racing world, American cycling legend Mike E. Smith has opened up about a troubling encounter with fellow jockey John Velazquez during the 2013 Belmont Stakes. In a recent interview, Smith described the incident as a moment that left a lasting mark on his storied career, calling it “a disgust in the racing industry.” His candid account of being attacked and continuously insulted during the high-stakes race has reignited discussions about sportsmanship, rivalry, and the pressures of the racing world.
The 2013 Belmont Stakes, the third jewel of the Triple Crown, was already a historic event. Palace Malice, ridden by Smith, surged to victory in a race that saw no Triple Crown contender, with Kentucky Derby winner Orb and Preakness winner Oxbow finishing third and second, respectively. Smith, a Hall of Fame jockey with a career spanning decades, guided Palace Malice to a triumphant 3¼-length win, outpacing Oxbow and leaving the field in awe of his masterful ride. Yet, behind the scenes, a darker story unfolded that Smith has only now chosen to share.
According to Smith, the tension with Velazquez, who rode Overanalyze to a seventh-place finish in the same race, erupted into a heated altercation. “It wasn’t just the competition on the track,” Smith recounted in the interview. “There were words thrown, insults that cut deep, and a moment that felt like a betrayal of the respect we’re supposed to have for each other.” While Smith didn’t delve into the exact words exchanged, his description of feeling attacked has raised eyebrows, especially given the professional camaraderie expected among top-tier jockeys.
Velazquez, a revered figure in his own right with three Belmont Stakes wins and a reputation for cool-headedness, has not yet responded publicly to Smith’s claims. However, the incident, as described by Smith, paints a picture of a rare fracture in the tight-knit racing community. “I was shocked,” Smith admitted. “I didn’t expect it, not from someone like him. It made me question a lot about the sport I’ve given my life to.” His reaction at the time, which he says surprised those around him, reportedly involved a heated exchange that sparked controversy among peers and fans alike.
The racing industry is no stranger to intense rivalries, but Smith’s decision to speak out after years of silence adds a layer of intrigue. Why now? Some speculate that Smith, who has won the Belmont Stakes three times, including with Justify during the 2018 Triple Crown, may be reflecting on his legacy as he nears the twilight of his career. Others believe the timing aligns with broader conversations about accountability and respect in sports. The 2013 Belmont Stakes, already a landmark race for its competitive field of 14 horses, now carries the weight of this unresolved conflict.
The fallout from Smith’s revelation has stirred the racing community. Fans on social media platforms like Facebook have been quick to react, with some expressing disbelief that two legends like Smith and Velazquez could clash so bitterly. Others see it as a humanizing moment, a reminder that even the most celebrated athletes face personal and professional challenges. “Mike Smith calling out Velazquez like this is wild,” one fan posted. “It makes you wonder what else happens behind the scenes in racing.”
What makes this story particularly gripping is the contrast between the public personas of these two jockeys. Smith, known for his strategic brilliance and calm demeanor, has long been a fan favorite. Velazquez, equally respected, has built a career on consistency and grace under pressure. Their clash at the 2013 Belmont Stakes, as described by Smith, challenges the polished image of horse racing’s elite and invites fans to look deeper into the sport’s competitive underbelly.
As the racing world awaits a potential response from Velazquez, Smith’s words linger as a call for reflection. “The industry needs to look at itself,” he said in the interview. “We’re all in this together, but moments like that show we’ve got work to do.” Whether this controversy will reshape perceptions of the sport or remain a footnote in the legacies of two of its greatest figures is uncertain. For now, Smith’s shocking revelation has ensured that the 2013 Belmont Stakes will be remembered not only for its thrilling finish but also for the untold drama that unfolded off the track.
