How to Watch Kentucky Derby 2026: Channel, Live Stream & Start Time for Triple Crown Race

Kentucky Derby

How to Watch Kentucky Derby 2026: Channel, Live Stream & Start Time for Triple Crown Race originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at Churchill Downs. A field of 20 three-year-old colts will compete in the first leg of the Triple Crown, continuing a tradition that dates back over a century.

The lead-up to the race has centered on a handful of standout favorites who dominated the spring qualifying circuit. However, the 1.25-mile distance and the sheer size of the field often level the playing field, making the Run for the Roses notoriously difficult to predict.

Strategic post positions and early pace will be critical factors as the gates open. In a race where a single stumble or a wide turn can end a championship bid, the jockeys will need perfect timing to navigate the heavy traffic and reach the finish line first.

The event remains the most iconic spectacle in the sport, drawing massive crowds to Louisville and millions of viewers worldwide. As the sun sets over the twin spires, another name will be added to the history books. Here's how to watch the 152nd Kentucky Derby.

What channel is the Kentucky Derby on today?

• TV channel:NBC

The 152nd Kentucky Derby will air live on NBC beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET, leading up to the main event with a scheduled post time of approximately 6:57 p.m. ET.

Mike Tirico is set to return for his 10th year as the primary host, anchoring the broadcast from Churchill Downs. He will be joined by analysts Jerry Bailey and Randy Moss.

Kentucky Derby live streams 2026

• Live stream:DIRECTV | Peacock

Those looking to live stream the Kentucky Derby can find it on DIRECTV or Peacock, with both streaming services providing the full-day festivities.

Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.

Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.

What time is the Kentucky Derby today?

• Date: Saturday, May 2
• Time: 6:57 p.m. ET

The 152nd Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Churchill Downs. The main event is scheduled for a post time of 6:57 p.m. ET and will serve as the 12th race on a 14-race Saturday card. Fans can tune in to NBC starting at 2:30 p.m. ET for full coverage of the festivities.

The day’s action begins early with the first race of the afternoon set for 10:30 a.m. ET. Whether you are watching for the tradition or the betting, the roughly two-minute sprint remains the most anticipated moment in horse racing.

Kentucky Derby horses 2026

Here's a look at the post positions for the 2026 Kentucky Derby as well as the morning-line odds for the race.