The Kentucky Derby, often called “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is a legendary spectacle that blends elite horse racing, rich tradition, and Southern charm. As the first jewel of the Triple Crown, the Kentucky Derby 2025 promises thrilling competition, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2025 Kentucky Derby: from the date and start time to the horses, odds, betting tips, and how to watch the action live.
Kentucky Derby 2025 Date and Time
- When is the Kentucky Derby 2025?
The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 3, 2025 (“derby day 2025”) at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. - What time is the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby race time is scheduled for 7:02 p.m. ET.- Kentucky Derby post time 2025: 7:02 p.m. ET
- Coverage begins: 2:30 p.m. ET
- What time does the Kentucky Derby start? While coverage starts in the afternoon, the main event (the Derby) is at 7:02 p.m. ET.
- Where is the Kentucky Derby?
The Derby is held at the iconic Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky.
Kentucky Derby 2025 Horses
How Do Horses Qualify for the Kentucky Derby?
Twenty horses earn a spot in the Kentucky Derby starting gate by accumulating points in designated prep races from September through mid-April. The top 20 point earners, or international series winners, fill the field for the “Run for the Roses.”
Horses in the Kentucky Derby 2025
The official lineup for the 2025 Kentucky Derby features 19 horses after a late scratch. Here are the contenders and their morning-line odds:
| Post | Horse | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Citizen Bull | 16-1 |
| 2 | Neoequos | 53-1 |
| 3 | Final Gambit | 16-1 |
| 5 | American Promise | 30-1 |
| 6 | Admire Daytona | 30-1 |
| 7 | Luxor Café | 15-1 |
| 8 | Journalism | 3-1 |
| 9 | Burnham Square | 12-1 |
| 11 | Flying Mohawk | 30-1 |
| … | … | … |
| 21 | Baeza | 12-1 |
Notable horses and favorites:
- Journalism (3-1): The morning-line favorite, coming off three straight graded-stakes wins.
- Sandman (5-1): A strong closer and Arkansas Derby winner.
- Luxor Café (15-1): Offspring of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah.
- Baeza (12-1): Entered as an alternate after Rodriguez scratched, runner-up in the Santa Anita Derby.
Note: The final Kentucky Derby lineup may change due to late scratches or substitutions. Check official sources for updates.
Kentucky Derby Odds and Predictions
How Derby Odds Work
- Odds reflect the potential payout for a winning bet. For example, 3-1 odds mean a $1 bet returns $3 profit.
- Odds fluctuate based on betting activity up until post time.
2025 Kentucky Derby Odds
- Journalism: 3-1 (favorite)
- Sandman: 5-1
- Luxor Café: 15-1
- Baeza: 12-1
- Citizen Bull: 16-1
- See full odds list above.
Kentucky Derby Predictions
- Experts’ picks: Journalism is widely seen as the horse to beat, with Sandman and Baeza as top challengers. Some analysts predict Sandman could surge late for an upset, while Baeza’s strong Santa Anita Derby finish makes him a popular dark horse.18
- Factors influencing odds: Recent performance, trainer and jockey reputation, post position, and track conditions.
How to Bet on the Kentucky Derby
Types of Bets
- Win: Pick the horse to finish first.
- Place: Horse must finish first or second.
- Show: Horse must finish in the top three.
- Exacta: Pick the first two finishers in order.
- Trifecta: Pick the first three finishers in order.
- Superfecta: Pick the first four finishers in order.
Where to Bet
- Online: TwinSpires.com is the official betting platform of Churchill Downs.16
- At the track: Place bets at Churchill Downs or other licensed venues.
- Tips for beginners: Start with simple win/place/show bets. Consider small exacta or trifecta boxes for higher payouts.
Betting on a Budget
- Even a $30 or $50 budget can yield exciting returns, especially if you hit an exacta or trifecta with longshots.
How to Watch the Kentucky Derby
- What channel is the Kentucky Derby on?
- NBC and USA Network will broadcast the race in the United States.
- Streaming: Watch online via Peacock, FuboTV, or the NBC Sports app.
- International coverage: Check local sports networks.
- How to watch Kentucky Derby 2025:
- Tune in to NBC or stream live on Peacock/FuboTV starting at 2:30 p.m. ET.
- The Derby post time is 7:02 p.m. ET.
The Kentucky Derby Tradition
- History: First run in 1875, the Kentucky Derby is America’s longest continuously held sporting event.17
- Run for the Roses: The winner receives a garland of roses.
- Mint Julep: The official drink, enjoyed by thousands each Derby Day.
- Fashion: Derby hats and Southern style are iconic.
- “My Old Kentucky Home”: Sung as the horses parade to the post.
Other Relevant Information
- The Kentucky Derby is sometimes called the “KY Derby” or simply “the Derby.”
- The race is the first leg of the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Derby 2025 is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in horse racing history. With a talented field, compelling storylines, and rich traditions, Derby Day is a must-watch event for sports fans everywhere.
Bookmark this page and check back for updates on the Kentucky Derby lineup, odds, and expert picks as Derby Day approaches. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a first-time viewer, get ready for the thrill of the “Run for the Roses” at Churchill Downs!
See alsohttps://scoopusa24.com/wwe-releases-2025-list-analysis/