The Kentucky Derby 2025: Schedule, Odds, and More

There’s no event in American horse racing quite like the Kentucky Derby. With a roar from the crowd, the thunder of hooves, and the flash of silks streaking down the homestretch, the Derby delivers two minutes of adrenaline that have defined sports history for over a century.

As the kickoff to the coveted Triple Crown in 2025, it draws the finest three-year-old horses, trainers, jockeys, and fans from across the globe, converging on Churchill Downs for a day of celebration, strategy, and spectacle.

Here’s your guide to everything that matters and the stories that could define this year’s Run for the Roses.

Event Schedule

The Kentucky Derby is the crescendo of a full day of elite racing at Churchill Downs, where history, tradition, and sport collide. Held on Saturday, May 3, the festivities begin when gates open at 9:00 A.M. Eastern Time, giving fans time to explore the grounds, sip mint juleps, and soak in the atmosphere before the races begin. 

The first post of the day is scheduled for 11:00 A.M., kicking off a stacked race card that builds anticipation toward the main event. The Kentucky Derby is slated for 6:57 P.M. Still, in the hours leading up to it, Churchill Downs will host multiple prestigious stakes races featuring top-tier horses, trainers, and jockeys nationwide.

It’s a full day of action for racing fans. From turf to dirt, sprints to longer routes, Derby Day serves as a feast for racing fans long before the gates swing open for the Run for the Roses. If you’re keeping track of the latest odds or planning to place a bet, FanDuel is a handy platform to follow. You can keep track of how favorites and long shots are trending, and get a clearer sense of the betting landscape before the big race.

The Field: Horses, Trainers, Jockeys, Odds & Post Positions

Twenty of the best three-year-old thoroughbreds have earned their place in the starting gate, each bringing a unique blend of speed, stamina, and pedigree. 

Here’s a look at the complete lineup:

Top Contenders

This year’s Kentucky Derby field is deep, talented, and unpredictable—but a handful of colts have emerged as clear standouts, commanding attention from handicappers and fans alike. From unbeaten favorites to fast-closing stalkers, these five contenders are shaping up as the ones to watch when the gates fly open.

Journalism (Post 8, 3-1 odds)

Undefeated in five starts, Journalism enters the Derby with a target on his back—and the pedigree to handle it. Trained by Michael W. McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, this colt has been a model of consistency, showcasing tactical versatility and a powerful late kick. He’s drawn perfectly in post 8, a historically advantageous spot, and has already proven he can handle pressure in a Grade I stakes race. 

Sovereignty (Post 18, 5-1 odds)

Sovereignty is one of the most polished closers in the field and thrives when the pace up front is hot—something likely to happen in this 20-horse melee. Trained by veteran horseman Bill Mott and guided by the steady hands of Junior Alvarado, Sovereignty has hit the board in every start and brings a resume filled with strong finishes in longer-distance prep races. If he gets a clean trip from the far outside, expect him to come flying late.

Sandman (Post 17, 6-1 odds)

Sandman turned heads with a gritty win in the Arkansas Derby, proving he belongs among the elite. Trained by Mark Casse and ridden by José Ortiz, this colt has a high cruising speed and the kind of toughness that’s vital in a crowded Derby field. While post-17 has historically been a tricky draw, Sandman’s tactical speed could help him secure position early and stay in contention when the real running begins.

How to Watch and Stream

Thanks to multiple viewing options across broadcast and digital platforms, fans won’t have to miss a moment of the Kentucky Derby action. NBC will deliver full television coverage beginning at 2:30 P.M. ET, featuring expert commentary, race previews, and live footage leading up to and through the main event.

Streaming is available through Peacock, the NBC Sports app, and FuboTV, which offer convenient access on phones, tablets, and smart TVs. These platforms provide complete Derby Day race card coverage, from the early undercard to the climactic Run for the Roses.

For international audiences, race day coverage will be syndicated globally. Fans outside the U.S. should check local sports networks or regional streaming providers for broadcast schedules and access in their area.

Kentucky Derby 2025 Weather Update

Louisville is expected to experience storms and heavy rain leading up to Derby weekend, which could significantly impact track conditions. Although the forecast for Saturday appears promising, with partly cloudy skies and a high of 67 degrees, the earlier precipitation could leave the Churchill Downs track less than ideal.

While no rain is currently expected on the day of the Kentucky Derby, the accumulation from earlier in the week may result in a damp or even muddy surface, depending on how well the track dries. That could play a key role in how the race unfolds, especially for horses that perform better on fast tracks versus those with experience in the slop.

Final Stretch

The Kentucky Derby 2025 promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in the sport’s rich history. With a compelling field, returning legends, and a global stage, this year’s race is packed with drama and anticipation. Fans planning to bet, celebrate at home, or simply take in the traditions can expect May 3 to stand out as one of the most exhilarating days in the horse racing calendar.

Grab your mint julep, don your best hat, and prepare for the Run for the Roses.