May 1, 2026
Kentucky Derby 2026: What to know about the first leg of horse racing's Triple Crown
Twenty horses will race for a $5 million purse at the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 2, with Renegade favored at 4-1 odds to win.
TL;DR
- The 152nd Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Twenty three-year-old horses will compete for a $5 million purse.
- Renegade is the favorite at 4-1 odds, trained by Todd A. Pletcher.
- Three horses have been scratched and replaced by others.
- The weather is not expected to impact the race.
- Trainer Bob Baffert is participating for the second time since his suspension.
- Cherie DeVaux could become the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby.
- Jockey Smith, at 59, aims to become the oldest jockey to win the Derby.