The Kentucky Derby, often called ‘The Run for the Roses,’ is America’s oldest and most celebrated horse race. Scheduled annually on the first Saturday of May, the 2025 Kentucky Derby promises another year of thrilling competition. This year, all eyes are on potential winners and the traditional festivities that make the Derby a cultural touchstone.
Taking place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, the event draws massive crowds and even larger viewership. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing fan or a casual observer, understanding the key details can enhance your experience. This article provides everything you need to know about the 2025 Kentucky Derby, from how to watch and start times to the leading horses and odds.
Inside, you’ll discover:
- How to watch the Derby live on TV and streaming platforms.
- The scheduled start time and where to catch pre-race coverage.
- An overview of the top contenders, including Journalism, Burnham Square and Sandman.
- Insights into the weather forecast and how it might affect the race.
- A brief history of the Mint Julep, the Derby’s iconic drink, complete with a recipe.
Start Time
Coverage of the Kentucky Derby commences at noon ET on the USA Network before transitioning to NBC at 2:30 p.m. ET. NBC has been the broadcast partner for the Kentucky Derby since 2001 and is committed to covering the event until at least 2032. The main event is the 12th race of the day, scheduled for a post time of 6:57 p.m. ET. Simone Biles, an accomplished U.S. gymnast, will give the command, “Riders up.”
How to Watch the 151st Kentucky Derby
- Venue: Churchill Downs — Louisville, Ky.
- Coverage: 2:30 p.m. ET Saturday
- TV: NBC, Peacock
- Streaming: Fubo
- Watching in person?: Check official vendors for ticket availability.
Who is the Favorite for the 2025 Kentucky Derby?
Journalism, winner of the Santa Anita Derby, is currently the morning line favorite. With Umberto Rispoli as the jockey, Journalism boasts an impressive lineage, as the son of Curlin. Burnham Square, and Sandman also are strong contenders.
Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert, was also a top prospect but was scratched. Baffert returns to Louisville after a two-year ban.
When is the Draw for the 2025 Kentucky Derby and Post Positions?
The draw was conducted last Saturday, assigning each of the qualified horses a starting spot. However, with Rodriguez and Grande scratched, only 19 horses will compete this year. The starting positions significantly influence the race, affecting each horse’s chances.
What are the Odds, and How Can I Bet on the Race?
Here are the top-five favorites:
| Post | Horse | Jockey | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Journalism | Umberto Rispoli | 3-1 |
| 2 | Sandman | José Ortiz | 5-1 |
| 1 | Burnham Square | Brian Hernandez Jr. | 8-1 |
| 7 | Sovereignty | Junior Alvarado | 9-2 |
| 10 | Tappan Street | Luis Saez | 10-1 |
How Long is the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby covers 1 1/4 miles. The record was set in 1973. Only one female horse has won the Derby since 1988 (Winning Colors).
What is the Weather Forecast for the Derby?
Expect intermittent storms with a 100 percent chance of rain during the day, with rainfall nearing a half-inch. The evening may bring a 60 percent chance of rain. Last year’s race also had similar weather conditions.
What is the Kentucky Derby’s Mint Julep?
The Mint Julep is the traditional beverage of the Kentucky Derby:
The Mint Julep is at least 100 years older than the Kentucky Derby, originating in the U.S. in the mid-to-late 1700s, and has been served at Churchill Downs since the race’s inception in 1875. The concept of the julep traces its origins back to ancient Persia, where rose petals were added to water for medicinal purposes. Eventually, the basics of a julep emerged: sugar, mints, spirits.
Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Old Forester 86 proof
- 3/4 oz. simple syrup
- 8-10 mint leaves
- Garnish: 3 mint sprigs
Preparation:
- Pack a mint julep cup with crushed ice.
- In a mixing glass, combine the first three ingredients.
- Lightly bruise mint leaves with a muddler.
- Strain into a prepared julep cup over the ice.
- Slap your mint sprigs! Insert them as garnish into the ice.
- Insert a straw into the ice near the mint.
The 2025 Kentucky Derby promises to be another exciting chapter in the storied history of this American tradition. With Journalism leading the pack and a field of talented contenders, the race will showcase the best in horse racing. Whether you’re watching from the stands at Churchill Downs or tuning in from home, the Derby offers a blend of sport, tradition, and culture.
Remember to check the latest weather updates and betting odds before the race. And if you’re looking to fully embrace the Derby experience, why not try making your own Mint Julep? No matter how you choose to celebrate, the Kentucky Derby is a reminder of the enduring appeal of horse racing.
Leave a Reply