Live Kentucky Derby updates: All horses, latest odds, scratches, picks

Largest Kentucky Derby margin of victory

Scooby Axson

• 8 lengths: Old Rosebud (1914), Johnstown (1939), Whirlaway (1941), Assault (1946)
• 6 3/4 lengths: Mine That Bird (2009)
• 6 1/2 lengths: Barbaro (2006)
• 6 lengths: Chant (1894), Hoop Jr. (1945)

Other notable Derby records:

• 10: Most Wins by Post Position: Post 5 (10.4 percent win rate)
• 0: Wins by Post Position: Posts 17; Kentucky Derby field has been limited to 20 starters since 1975.
• Disqualifications: Medina Spirit (2021, 1st to 19th), Maximum Security (2019, 1st to 17th), Dancer’s Image (1968, 1st to 14th), Gate Dancer (1984, 4th to 5th),

2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, post positions updates

Scooby Axson

Here are the starting positions and odds, according to kentuckyderby.com, for all the horses participating in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. Odds as of 4:10 p.m. ET, May 2.

• No. 1: Renegade | odds: 6-1
• No. 2: Albus | odds: 44-1
• No. 3: Intrepido | odds: 46-1
• No. 4: Litmus Test | odds: 26-1
• No. 5: Right to Party SCRATCHED
• No. 6: Commandment | odds: 5-1  
• No. 7: Danon Bourbon | odds: 14-1
• No. 8: So Happy | odds: 5-1
• No. 9: The Puma SCRATCHED
• No. 10: Wonder Dean | odds: 26-1 
• No. 11: Incredibolt | odds: 24-1
• No. 12: Chief Wallabee | odds: 6-1 
• No. 13: Silent Tactic SCRATCHED
• No. 14: Potente | odds: 19-1
• No. 15: Emerging Market | odds: 9-1
• No. 16: Pavlovian | odds: 46-1
• No. 17: Six Speed | odds: 33-1
• No. 18: Further Ado | odds: 6-1
• No. 19: Golden Tempo | odds: 24-1
• No. 20: Fulleffort | SCRATCHED
• No. 21: Great White | odds: 22-1
• No. 22: Ocelli | odds: 80-1
• No. 23: Robusta | odds: 79-1
• No. 24: Corona De Oro | SCRATCHED

Kentucky Derby's fastest times

Steve Gardner

The Kentucky Derby is often called "the fastest two minutes in sports." And for good reason.

Throughout the race's 151-year history, the winning times over the 1 1/4 mile track at Churchill Downs have almost always been just a shade over two minutes. No matter the track conditions or the weather, every single time since 1949, the Kentucky Derby champion has recorded a time of between 1:59 and 2:05.

So which horses have been the best of the best throughout the Derby's storied past?

USA TODAY Sports' Steve Gardner has a list of the fastest times in Kentucky Derby history.

The top 3 follow:

• 1. Secretariat, 1:59.4 (1973)
• 2. Monarchos, 1:59.97 (2001)
• 3. Northern Dancer, 2:00.0 (1964)

Kentucky Derby results: Churchill Downs horse races today

Gabe Zaldivar

Get full undercard results for Kentucky Derby races here.

Winners

• Race 1: Powershift
• Race 2: Out of the Woods
• Race 3: Vibe
• Race 4: R Disaster
• Race 5: Yellow Card
• Race 6: Tour Player
• Race 7: Classic Q

Kentucky Derby ticket price: How much to see the Run for Roses?

Elizabeth Flores

The Kentucky Derby offers an array of ticket options to accommodate every type of fan and budget. Among the most sought-after are the premium seating and dining packages, which often bundle tickets for both the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks. These exclusive two-day packages feature all-inclusive gourmet food and beverages, access to private lounges, and some of the best views in the venue. According to the official Kentucky Derby website, prices for these luxury experiences start at $2,075.

Below is a breakdown of ticket prices, according to kentuckyderby.com:

• Reserved Seating: prices range from $917.25 to $1,781
• Dining: prices range from $1,519 to $10,950
• Private Suites: prices range from $165,000 to $405,000
• Standing room and General Admission: prices range from $132.25 to $731.85

Celebrities take over Kentucky Derby

Gabe Zaldivar

The stars are out already at Churchill Downs as Bon Jovi and Melissa Joan Hart join a stable of stars.

Seen on the Kentucky Derby red carpet have been Jaxson Dart, Jeffery Simmons, Cody Ford, Zay Flowers, Fred Warner, DeAndre Hopkins, Cooper DeJean, Rob Gronkowski, Kyle Rudolph, Nate Burleson and Warren Moon.

How many races are in the Kentucky Derby?

Gabe Zaldivar

The Kentucky Derby's "Run for the Roses" is just one race on Saturday. While that would be the main event, there are 13 other undercard races.

The Kentucky Derby is race No. 12, and will be followed by two more races to end the day.

Bob Baffert going for record 7th Derby win

Scooby Axson

Bob Baffert is going for a record seventh win at the Kentucky Derby as a trainer.  He did win with Medina Spirit in 2021, but was disqualified when the horse failed a drug test.

The 73-year-old Baffert has Litmus Test and Potente in this year's race, aiming to break the tie with Ben Jones, whose horses won in 1938, 1941, 1944, 1948, 1949, and 1952.

Baffert's winning Kentucky Derby horses:

• Authentic (2020)
• Justify (2018)
• American Pharaoh (2015)
• War Emblem (2002)
• Real Quiet (1998)
• Silver Charm (1997)

Horse racing's Triple Crown winners

Scooby Axson

Here is a list of the 13 horses that have won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes in the same year:

• 2018 - Justify
• 2015 - American Pharoah
• 1978 - Affirmed
• 1977 - Seattle Slew
• 1973 - Secretariat
• 1948 - Citation
• 1946 - Assault
• 1943 - Count Fleet
• 1941 - Whirlaway
• 1937 - War Admiral
• 1935 - Omaha
• 1930 - Gallant Fox
• 1919 - Sir Barton

2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, post positions updates

Scooby Axson

Here are the starting positions and odds, according to kentuckyderby.com, for all the horses participating in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. Odds as of 1:10 p.m. ET, May 2.

• No. 1: Renegade | odds: 6-1
• No. 2: Albus | odds: 44-1
• No. 3: Intrepido | odds: 46-1
• No. 4: Litmus Test | odds: 26-1
• No. 5: Right to Party SCRATCHED
• No. 6: Commandment | odds: 5-1  
• No. 7: Danon Bourbon | odds: 14-1
• No. 8: So Happy | odds: 5-1
• No. 9: The Puma SCRATCHED
• No. 10: Wonder Dean | odds: 24-1 
• No. 11: Incredibolt | odds: 24-1
• No. 12: Chief Wallabee | odds: 6-1 
• No. 13: Silent Tactic SCRATCHED
• No. 14: Potente | odds: 20-1
• No. 15: Emerging Market | odds: 9-1
• No. 16: Pavlovian | odds: 46-1
• No. 17: Six Speed | odds: 33-1
• No. 18: Further Ado | odds: 6-1
• No. 19: Golden Tempo | odds: 25-1
• No. 20: Fulleffort | SCRATCHED
• No. 21: Great White | odds: 22-1
• No. 22: Ocelli | odds: 84-1
• No. 23: Robusta | odds: 83-1
• No. 24: Corona De Oro | SCRATCHED

Kentucky Derby Results: undercard races

Scooby Axson

Race 4 - Derby City Distaff

• 1st place: R Disaster
• 2nd place: Ways and Means
• 3rd place: Usha

Kentucky Derby Results: undercard races

Elizabeth Flores

Race 2

Results of the second race at Churchill Downs on May 2:

• 1st place: Out of the Woods
• 2nd place: Sovereign Law
• 3rd place: Our Moneyman

Kentucky Derby signature drink

Elizabeth Flores

The official drink of the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep, a cocktail made with Kentucky bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint and crushed ice.

Kentucky Derby Results: undercard races

Elizabeth Flores

Race 1

Results of the first race at Churchill Downs on May 2:

• 1st place: Powershift
• 2nd place: Silentway
• 3rd place: Ingleborough

Why did The Puma scratch?

Elizabeth Flores

The Puma has been scratched from the 152nd Kentucky Derby because of leg swelling resulting from a skin infection. While his handlers expect the swelling to decrease in a few days, he cannot compete in the Run for the Roses. He was set to start from gate No. 9 and had morning odds of 8-1. With The Puma’s withdrawal coming after the official deadline, the field drops to 19 horses, as alternate Corona de Oro was not eligible to take his place.

2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, post positions updates

Elizabeth Flores

Here are the starting positions and odds, according to kentuckyderby.com, for all the horses participating in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. Odds as of 11:15 am ET, May 2.

• No. 1: Renegade | odds: 5-1
• No. 2: Albus | odds: 50-1
• No. 3: Intrepido | odds: 55-1
• No. 4: Litmus Test | odds: 34-1
• No. 5: Right to Party SCRATCHED
• No. 6: Commandment | odds: 7-1  
• No. 7: Danon Bourbon | odds: 14-1
• No. 8: So Happy | odds: 6-1
• No. 9: The Puma SCRATCHED
• No. 10: Wonder Dean | odds: 20-1 
• No. 11: Incredibolt | odds: 27-1
• No. 12: Chief Wallabee | odds: 9-1 
• No. 13: Silent Tactic SCRATCHED
• No. 14: Potente | odds: 23-1
• No. 15: Emerging Market | odds: 11-1
• No. 16: Pavlovian | odds: 52-1
• No. 17: Six Speed | odds: 40-1
• No. 18: Further Ado | odds: 7-1
• No. 19: Golden Tempo | odds: 36-1
• No. 20: Fulleffort | SCRATCHED
• No. 21: Great White | odds: 29-1
• No. 22: Ocelli | odds: 50-1
• No. 23: Robusta | odds: 50-1
• No. 24: Corona De Oro | odds: 50-1

Donna Brothers final ride at Kentucky Derby

Gabe Zaldivar

It's been quite the run for NBC's Donna Brothers who will culminate 26 years as the network's analyst on the ground at the Kentucky Derby. This year's run will be her last.

“I feel so lucky to have worked for NBC. I’ve loved this job and have had so many great experiences and opportunities through the years,” Brothers told The Louisville Courier Journal, part of the USA TODAY network. “Besides horse racing, I’ve covered the World Equestrian Games in Germany and here at the Kentucky Horse Park, the American Quarter Horse Association World Championships in Oklahoma, show jumping in Geneva, plus professional bull riding.”

--- Read more on Donna Brothers' final Kentucky Derby.

Kentucky Derby ticket prices

Elizabeth Flores

The Kentucky Derby offers a wide range of ticket options for every fan. Premium packages, which include tickets to both the Derby and the Oaks, feature all-inclusive dining, private lounges, and prime views – starting at $2,075.

For a more affordable Derby experience, infield general admission tickets start at $137.35 and let fans bring their own chairs or picnic. Infield final turn admission is $376.50, while Frontside Plaza Walkaround tickets with paddock access and amenities start at $731.85.

Kentucky Derby attire

Elizabeth Flores

The Kentucky Derby is renowned for its bold, spring-inspired fashion, with attendees donning vibrant pastel colors, floral prints, and extravagant hats that have become synonymous with the event. This sartorial tradition dates back to the inaugural Derby in 1875, when founder Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. encouraged guests to attend in "full morning dress," reflecting his vision of the Derby as a high-society affair. Over the decades, Derby fashion has evolved beyond formality to embrace creativity, individuality, and a festive spirit, making the event as much a celebration of style as of sport.

Churchill Downs weather today

Elizabeth Flores

The forecast is expected to be cool but mostly dry for the 2026 Kentucky Derby. Race day will feature plenty of sunshine with scattered clouds, and a high near 66°F accompanied by gentle winds of 10 to 15 mph. The evening is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures dropping to 53°F, according to AccuWeather.

Picking Kentucky Derby winner with handicappers

Josh Peter

You’re going to pick the Kentucky Derby winner this year. We all are.

All we need to do is find the right clue, or the right system, or the right expert.

But with time running out, our focus is on four handicappers.

USA TODAY Sports' Josh Peter has the breakdown.

Kentucky Derby field at 19

Jason Frakes and Brooks Holton

The Puma’s defection means 19 horses are set to enter the starting gate for the Kentucky Derby. Post time is set for 6:57 p.m. Saturday.

The Puma is the fifth horse to be scratched from the Derby since last Saturday’s draw, joining Right to Party, Silent Tactic, Fulleffort and Corona de Oro.

2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, post positions updates

Elizabeth Flores

Here are the starting positions and odds, according to kentuckyderby.com, for all the horses participating in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. Odds as of 9:21 P.M. ET on May 2.

• No. 1: Renegade | odds: 5-1
• No. 2: Albus | odds: 50-1
• No. 3: Intrepido | odds: 55-1
• No. 4: Litmus Test | odds: 34-1
• No. 5: Right to Party SCRATCHED
• No. 6: Commandment | odds: 7-1  
• No. 7: Danon Bourbon | odds: 14-1
• No. 8: So Happy | odds: 6-1
• No. 9: The Puma SCRATCHED
• No. 10: Wonder Dean | odds: 20-1 
• No. 11: Incredibolt | odds: 27-1
• No. 12: Chief Wallabee | odds: 9-1 
• No. 13: Silent Tactic SCRATCHED
• No. 14: Potente | odds: 23-1
• No. 15: Emerging Market | odds: 11-1
• No. 16: Pavlovian | odds: 52-1
• No. 17: Six Speed | odds: 40-1
• No. 18: Further Ado | odds: 7-1
• No. 19: Golden Tempo | odds: 36-1
• No. 20: Fulleffort | SCRATCHED
• No. 21: Great White | odds: 29-1
• No. 22: Ocelli | odds: 50-1
• No. 23: Robusta | odds: 50-1

The Puma scratched from the field

Elizabeth Flores

The Puma has been scratched from the 152nd Kentucky Derby due to swelling in his leg caused by a skin infection. Although The Puma's connections believe the swelling will subside within a few days, he is unable to participate in the Run for the Roses. The Puma was scheduled to start from the No. 9 gate and had 8-1 morning odds.

Will Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce be at the 2026 Kentucky Derby?

Mark Giannotto

Did music superstar Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce buy a stake in The Puma ahead of the 2026 Kentucky Derby? Will the power couple be in attendance at Churchill Downs for the first Triple Crown race of the year to watch this horse they may or may not be financially tied to now?

Those have been among the talking points around the track, and The Puma's owner didn't put the speculation to rest when he had the chance. Click the link below for what to know about the potential connection between 2026 Kentucky Derby contender The Puma and the power couple of Swift and Kelce:

Kentucky Derby prediction: AI picks 2026 winner

Mark Giannotto

USA TODAY Sports asked Microsoft Copilot's AI chatbot to produce a simulation of the 2026 Kentucky Derby field with full results, including the winner of this year's first Triple Crown race. It was told to use the latest odds and conditions, as well as analysis of favorites, best bets, expert picks, previous results and race history with the post positions for all 20 horses set. Just like earlier this week, Microsoft Copilot picked Further Ado to win.

Here's a breakdown of the Kentucky Derby predictions made by Microsoft Copilot AI, including its picks to win, show and place at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 2. — Mark Giannotto

Kentucky Derby horse name generator

Elizabeth Flores

What's is your Kentucky Derby horse name? And is it good enough to go down in history? The Louisville Courier-Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network, has the answer. Enter your first name and last initial into our Kentucky Derby Horse Name Generator and find out.

And be sure to share your name on your social media channels!

How many horses run in Kentucky Derby?

Elizabeth Flores

A maximum of 20 horses compete in the Kentucky Derby each year, making it one of the most competitive events in the sport. Entry into the prestigious starting gate is determined by a rigorous system of qualifying prep races held across the country and internationally. In these races, horses accumulate points based on their performance, with the highest point earners earning a coveted spot in the Derby field. In addition to the 20 primary qualifiers, a small group of "also-eligible" horses is designated in case one of the original contenders is forced to withdraw before race day.

2026 Kentucky Derby picks, predictions

Eric Larsen

Louisville Courier Journal: Commandment is No. 1 pick

The USA TODAY Network outlet's final ranking of the horses leading into Kentucky Derby week placed Commandment in the No. 1 spot, followed by Renegade, The Puma, Further Ado and Emerging Market

KentuckyDerby.com: Commandment leads pack

Of the seven handicappers and experts listed at the Kentucky Derby's official website, four had Commandment ranked as the No. 1 horse in this year's field. Two experts picked Renegade as their top pick and The Puma also received one No. 1 ranking.

Horse Racing Nation: Watch out for Chief Wallabee

"(Chief Wallabee) adds blinkers for this race, which should focus him enough to put it all together. It is true that the addition of blinkers is rare and often unsuccessful in the (Kentucky) Derby, but if anyone knows what they are doing it is (trainer) Bill Mott. ... (Chief Wallabee) has the perfect tracking style to get first run on the deep closers and offers a square price in a wide-open Kentucky Derby."

High fashion at the Kentucky Derby: Check out the best looks

Eric Larsen

It's going to be a day of celebrity, glamour and high fashion in Louisville. If you haven't caught the best from the spectacle that is Kentucky Derby week, don't worry. We have you covered. Check out our best photos so far from the party at Churchill Downs.

Always a Runner wins 2026 Kentucky Oaks

Jason Frakes

Always a Runner won Friday’s $1.5 million, Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs.

Trained by Chad Brown and ridden by Jose Ortiz, Always a Runner covered the 1⅛ miles in 1:48.82.

Meaning was second, and Counting Stars was third.

2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, post positions updates

Eric Larsen

Here are the starting positions and odds, according to kentuckyderby.com, for all the horses participating in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. Odds as of midnight ET, May 2.

• No. 1: Renegade | odds: 5-1
• No. 2: Albus | odds: 50-1
• No. 3: Intrepido | odds: 55-1
• No. 4: Litmus Test | odds: 34-1
• No. 5: Right to Party SCRATCHED
• No. 6: Commandment | odds: 7-1  
• No. 7: Danon Bourbon | odds: 14-1
• No. 8: So Happy | odds: 6-1
• No. 9: The Puma | odds: 8-1
• No. 10: Wonder Dean | odds: 20-1 
• No. 11: Incredibolt | odds: 27-1
• No. 12: Chief Wallabee | odds: 9-1 
• No. 13: Silent Tactic SCRATCHED
• No. 14: Potente | odds: 23-1
• No. 15: Emerging Market | odds: 11-1
• No. 16: Pavlovian | odds: 52-1
• No. 17: Six Speed | odds: 40-1
• No. 18: Further Ado | odds: 7-1
• No. 19: Golden Tempo | odds: 36-1
• No. 20: Fulleffort | SCRATCHED
• No. 21: Great White | odds: 29-1
• No. 22: Ocelli | odds: 50-1
• No. 23: Robusta | odds: 50-1
• No. 24: Corona De Oro | odds: 50-1

Kentucky Derby weather: Mild, with little chance of rain

Eric Larsen

Nobody likes a soggy fascinator. That's just a fact. And while some recent Kentucky Derby races have been accompanied by heavy rains, it looks like the 2026 version will be poncho optional.

According to The Weather Channel, race-time weather in Louisville, Kentucky will be 58 degrees and partly cloudy. There's only a 20% chance of rain on May 2, so a dry and fast race may be in the cards. If you weren't paying attention in 2025, it sure beats this:

Kentucky Derby 2026 full May 2 race schedule

Eric Larsen

Don't worry, there's a lot more than two minutes of racing action to take in on May 2. The 152nd Kentucky Derby is just one of 14 thoroughbred horse races at Churchill Downs. Here's the full list of racing action. USA TODAY will post live results from the racing action throughout the day.

All times are Eastern.

1. Race 1, 11 a.m.
2. Race 2, 11:32 a.m.
3. Race 3, 12:05 p.m.
4. Derby City Distaff, 12:38 p.m.
5. Twin Spires Turf Sprint, 1:12 p.m.
6. Knicks Go, 1:53 p.m.
7. Churchill Distaff Turf Mile, 2:38 p.m.
8. Pat Day Mile, 3:23 p.m.
9. American Turf, 4:06 p.m.
10. Churchill Downs, 4:50 p.m.
11. Old Forester Turf Classic, 5:39 p.m.
12. Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve, 6:57 p.m.
13. Race 13, 8 p.m.
14. Race 14, 8:33 p.m.