2026 Kentucky Derby date, start time, odds and what to know

The 2026 Kentucky Derby, the exciting kickoff to the Triple Crown series, is only a week away.

On Saturday, May 2, Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, will host the 152nd running of this historic race, attracting a crowd of tens of thousands of people and millions of others watching worldwide.

The Kentucky Derby is celebrated not just for its intense competition but also its rich history and vibrant traditions – namely the elaborate hats, sophisticated outfits, and the ballad of "My Old Kentucky Home," which fosters an air of grandness and Southern hospitality. Ultimately, the Derby showcases top Thoroughbreds competing for the sport’s most coveted prize: the legendary garland of roses.

Labeled "the most exciting two minutes in sports," the Kentucky Derby features the best 3-year-old Thoroughbred horses competing over a challenging 1¼-mile dirt course at Churchill Downs. The 2026 lineup appears especially competitive with Renegade, who impressed with a dominant win at the Arkansas Derby, the early favorite. Commandment, fresh off a Florida Derby victory, and The Puma are also top contenders.

Here's everything to know ahead of the 152nd Run for the Roses.

When is 2026 Kentucky Derby?

The 152nd Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026. Fans can view the Kentucky Derby on NBC and USA Network, with streaming available on Peacock.

• Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
• Time: 2:30 p.m. ET - 7:30 p.m. ET
• TV: NBC, USA Network
• Stream: Peacock
• Location: Churchill Downs (Louisville, Kentucky)

How to watch 2026 Kentucky Derby

The 2026 Kentucky Derby can be watched on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock. Coverage starts at 2:30 p.m. ET.

How many horses will run at 2026 Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby permits a maximum of 20 horses to race in the 1 ¼-mile event at Churchill Downs. Additionally, up to four horses can be listed as "also-eligible" to replace any scratched competitors and may participate if needed.

2026 Kentucky Derby odds and early contenders

Odds via CBS Sports.

• Renegade | early odds: 9-2
• Commandment | early odds: 5-1
• Further Ado | early odds: 6-1
• The Puma | early odds: 10-1
• Chief Wallabee | early odds: 10-1
• Danon Bourbon | early odds: 15-1
• Emerging Market | early odds: 15-1
• Fulleffort | early odds: 15-1
• So Happy | early odds: 15-1
• Potente | early odds: 20-1
• River Thames | early odds: 20-1
• Silent Tactic | early odds: 20-1
• Incredibolt | early odds: 30-1
• Albus | early odds: 30-1
• Chip Honcho | early odds: 30-1
• Golden Tempo | early odds: 30-1
• Iron Honor | early odds: 30-1
• Wonder Dean | early odds: 30-1
• Pavlovian | early odds: 30-1
• Right to Party | early odds: 30-1
• Six Speed | early odds: 30-1

What is 2026 Kentucky Derby purse?

The purse amount for the 152nd annual Kentucky Derby has not yet been announced. Last year's winner was awarded a gold trophy, $3.1 million from the total $5 million purse, and the Garland of Roses draped over the winning horse.