The Bob Baffert-trained colt won the first two legs - the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes - earlier this season and would become the first horse for 24 years to complete the treble.

It would be third time lucky for Baffert, who won the first two legs in 1997 (with Silver Charm) and in 1998 (with Real Quiet) but both horses fell short at Belmont.

War Emblem, who will be ridden as usual by Victor Espinosa, is a strong favourite to become only the 12th horse to complete the historic treble.

If he does so, his connections will collect not only the first prize of $600,000 (�411,000) but also a $5m (�3.4m) Triple Crown bonus.

His major rivals are likely to be the progressive Sunday Break and Proud Citizen, who was second in the Kentucky Derby and third in the Preakness.

The draw at the 12-furlong oval track is not considered to be an important factor although it is perhaps slightly unfavourable for War Emblem, who is towards the outside in stall 10.

Godolphin are represented by Essence of Dubai and their racing manager Simon Crisford said he was expecting some improvement on the colt's ninth place in the Kentucky Derby.

"The Belmont will favour him as he is stepping up to a mile and a half - the Belmont is a very different race," he said.

But he admitted that Essence of Dubai would be hard pressed to beat the favourite.

"Anything can happen but War Emblem looks the one."

Other challengers in the 12-strong field are the ex-Aidan O'Brien-trained Wiseman's Ferry.

Allen Jerkens' Puzzlement misses the race because of a bruised a foot.