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

TL;DR

The 2026 Kentucky Derby will take place on May 2 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This historic race features top Thoroughbreds competing for the coveted garland of roses.

Key points

2026 Kentucky Derby on May 2
Held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky
Features top 3-year-old Thoroughbreds
Renegade is the early favorite
Known for its rich history and traditions

Mentioned in this story

Churchill DownsLouisville

RenegadeCommandmentThe PumaKentucky Derby

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.

More: Kentucky Derby 2026: From date and time to hats and horses, everything you need to know

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.