2025 Kentucky Derby
- May 2, 2025, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Horse racing events don’t get much bigger than the Kentucky Derby, which is why it is the most-attended and most-watched race in the United States.
The popular event is steeped in history, as the first race was run in 1875, making it the oldest race in the Triple Crown.
If you cannot wait to cheer on your chosen horse to victory this year, here are all the latest details on the 2025 Kentucky Derby, including its date, time, location, horses, purse, traditions, and broadcast details.
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When is the 2025 Kentucky Derby?
The 2025 Kentucky Derby is scheduled to be held on May 2 and May 3, 2025. The world-famous horse racing event will take place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
The race meeting is followed by the week-long Kentucky Derby Festival, and it is the largest single event in the state.
What Time is the Kentucky Derby Race?
The Kentucky Derby race, often called “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sport” or “The Run for the Roses,” is likely to be held between 6 pm and 7 pm (EST) on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
How Many Horses Compete in the Kentucky Derby Race?
20 thoroughbred horses will compete in the Kentucky Derby Race in 2025. The runners must earn their spot, as they will compete in the Road to the Kentucky Derby, which is a series of qualification races to secure a chance to run in the prestigious race.
As a result, the horses will compete at horse racing tracks across the United States and around the world, ensuring only the best runners and riders participate in the Kentucky Derby race.
What is the Purse for the Kentucky Derby Race?
Many owners and trainers dream of winning the Kentucky Derby race, but only a small number will do so during their careers.
As winning the race is a prestigious achievement, it comes with a lucrative purse of $5 million, which is split between the top five horses and their jockeys. It is a $2 million increase from 2023, as the top three received a share of $3 million.
The Kentucky Derby purse of $5 million will be distributed as follows:
- 1st place – $3.1 million (the jockey will take home $310,000)
- 2nd place – $1 million
- 3rd place – $500,000
- 4th place – $250,000
- 5th place – $150,000
The Kentucky Derby is known for providing the highest purse of the Triple Crown races, as the Belmont Stakes and Preakness Stakes have $2 million purses.
What Are the Kentucky Derby Traditions?
In addition to hosting one of the most exciting horse racing events on the calendar, the Kentucky Derby has various traditions that add to the fun and prestige of the day.
For instance, a mint julep is the event’s signature ice drink made from bourbon, mint, and sugar syrup, and it has been historically served in a frosted silver julep cup.
Also, burgoo, a popular Kentucky dish, is often served to attendees at the event, which is a thick, flavorsome stew made from pork, chicken, and vegetables.
Where Can I Watch the Kentucky Derby 2025?
You can watch the Kentucky Derby on NBC in the United States, and it will air on TSN in Canada.
UK horse racing fans can watch every second of the action on Sky Sports, and Australians should switch their channels to Kayo Sports.
