Discover the 2025 Kentucky Derby schedule, top contenders, updated odds, and how to watch the race live from Churchill Downs.


Newsletter

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The 151st Kentucky Derby, famously known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," is set to captivate horse racing enthusiasts on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

๐Ÿ“… Event Schedule & Broadcast Details

  • Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025

  • Venue: Churchill Downs, Louisville, KY

  • Gates Open: 9:00 AM ET

  • First Race: 11:00 AM ET

  • Main Race Post Time: 6:57 PM ET

  • Broadcast: NBC, Peacock, USA Network, NBC Sports App

Note: Coverage begins at 2:30 PM ET on NBC. 

๐Ÿ‡ Top Contenders & Odds

The 2025 Kentucky Derby features a competitive field of 20 horses. Here are some of the leading contenders:

  • Journalism (7-2 odds): The favorite, with a strong pedigree and a three-race winning streak.

  • Sandman (6-1 odds): Known for endurance and a recent win at the Arkansas Derby.

  • Luxor Café (15-1 odds): A Japanese entry with a strong closing ability.

  • Final Gambit (30-1 odds): A long-shot with potential, trained by Brad Cox.

  • Citizen Bull (20-1 odds): Trained by Bob Baffert, returning after a three-year ban. 

Note: Rodriguez, initially a top contender, has been scratched due to a foot bruise. 

๐ŸŒง๏ธ Weather Forecast

Rain is expected on race day, potentially leading to a wet track. While dry conditions are anticipated during the main race, morning and afternoon showers could impact the track's condition. 

๐ŸŽŸ๏ธ How to Watch

Fans can catch the action live on NBC, with coverage starting at 2:30 PM ET. For streaming, tune in via Peacock, USA Network, or the NBC Sports App.

๐Ÿ† Prize & Tradition

The Kentucky Derby winner will receive a $5 million purse and the iconic garland of roses, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1875.

FAQ

The race is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025, with the main event starting at 6:57 PM ET.ย 

At Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

Live coverage begins at 2:30 PM ET on NBC. Streaming is available on Peacock, USA Network, and the NBC Sports App.

Leading horses include Journalism, Sandman, Luxor Cafรฉ, Final Gambit, and Citizen Bull.

The winner receives a $5 million purse and the traditional garland of roses.

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