It’s that time of year again when the eyes of America—and horse racing fans around the globe—turn to Louisville, Kentucky. The 151st Kentucky Derby is not just a horse race; it’s a historic celebration of tradition, power, beauty, and speed, set to unfold on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the legendary Churchill Downs.
Whether you're tuning in for the thundering hooves or placing your bets on a favorite, here’s everything you need to know in one place.
🕒 When & Where to Watch the Kentucky Derby 2025
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Race Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
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Post Time: 6:57 p.m. ET
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Broadcast: Live on NBC (Coverage starts at 2:30 p.m. ET)
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Streaming: NBCSports.com & NBC Sports App
Grab your mint juleps and fancy hats—this is “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” and it’s not to be missed.
🐎 The Horses to Watch – Favorites, Surprises & Changes
🥇 Journalism (3-1 odds)
The headline-maker—literally. This morning-line favorite has both the pedigree and public attention. Trained by Michael W. McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, Journalism is looking to write history.
🥈 Sovereignty (5-1 odds)
A strong and steady contender. Under the guidance of trainer William Mott and jockey Junior Alvarado, Sovereignty could easily surprise everyone with a breakout performance.
🥉 Sandman (6-1 odds)
With a powerful closing kick, Sandman—trained by Mark Casse and ridden by José Ortiz—comes off a stunning Arkansas Derby win. He’s the dark horse who might just dominate the dream.
🔁 Scratches & Replacements
Sadly, Rodriguez and Grande were scratched due to health concerns. But in their place, Baeza steps up—trained by John Shirreffs and ridden by Flavien Prat, coming in with 12-1 odds and a lot to prove.
💸 Betting Breakdown – Where to Wager & What to Know
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Official Betting Partner
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Popular Bet Types:
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Win-only: Pick the winner
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Exacta: Pick the top 2 in exact order
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Trifecta: Top 3 in order
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Superfecta: Top 4 in order
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🔔 Tip for New Bettors: TwinSpires is offering up to $200 in bonus bets for new users. It’s a good time to dive in—even a small wager makes the race thrilling.
🌹 Why the Kentucky Derby Still Captures America's Heart
There’s something timeless about this event. It’s not just about sport—it’s pageantry, Southern charm, and a national tradition all rolled into one. The Kentucky Derby is where dreams are chased in 120 seconds and legacies are born.
This year’s race is loaded with emotion, last-minute changes, and some of the most competitive horses in recent memory. All eyes will be on Journalism, but as any seasoned bettor will tell you—anything can happen under the twin spires.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The 2025 Kentucky Derby isn't just a race—it’s a celebration of athleticism, resilience, and American tradition. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a first-time viewer, this year’s Derby promises high drama, unforgettable moments, and maybe even a new racing legend.
So, who are you putting your money on?
