Kentucky Derby Guide 2026: Start Time, List of Horses & How to Watch Triple Crown Race

Kentucky Derby

Kentucky Derby Guide 2026: Start Time, List of Horses & How to Watch Triple Crown Race originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Churchill Downs will be the place to be when “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" makes its return. Who will win the 152nd Kentucky Derby?

Dating back to 1875, the Kentucky Derby is the oldest continuously running sports event in the United States. The opening leg of the Triple Crown features some of the top thoroughbreds, starting at three, racing a 1.25-mile distance.

The event is known for people from all over the U.S. joining together to dress elegantly, matching the “Run for the Roses” nickname.

Some of the biggest winners, several earning Triple Crown status, include Secretariat, American Pharaoh, and Justify. Last year, Sovereignty earned the win.

Here is everything you need to know about the 152nd Kentucky Derby, including the start time, streaming info and horses participating in the race.

How to watch Kentucky Derby 2026: TV channel, live stream

• TV channel: NBC
• Live stream:DIRECTV | Peacock

The 152nd Kentucky Derby will air live on NBC. Those looking to live stream the Kentucky Derby can find it on DIRECTV or Peacock, with both streaming services providing the full-day festivities.

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

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 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.

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.

Kentucky Derby Churchill Downs map 2026

Churchill Downs map

Kentucky Derby

Kentucky Derby past winners

For the complete list of winners, click here.