Event Overview
The 151st Kentucky Derby, known as the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” takes place on May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. This 1.25-mile race for three-year-old Thoroughbreds kicks off the Triple Crown, drawing global attention with its rich traditions, like the iconic garland of roses for the winner. With 20 horses competing, including early favorite Journalism, this guide helps you watch and bet on Kentucky Derby 2025 effortlessly.
How to Watch
Catch the action live on NBC, USA Network, Peacock, or FanDuel TV. NBC coverage begins at 2:30 PM ET on May 3, with the race at 6:57 PM ET, while the Kentucky Oaks airs on USA Network and Peacock on May 2 from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM ET.
FanDuel TV also streams the Oaks from 10:30 AM ET. For Kentucky Derby streaming options, a VPN can help if you’re abroad. In the USA, Peacock offers full coverage, or stream via Fubo ($46/month).
Past Kentucky Derby Winners (2015–2024)
Reviewing past winners can guide your bets as you watch and bet on Kentucky Derby 2025. Mystik Dan won in 2024, followed by Mage in 2023. Rich Strike stunned in 2022, while Mandaloun was awarded 2021 after Medina Spirit’s disqualification.
Authentic took 2020, and Country House won in 2019 after Maximum Security’s disqualification. Justify (2018), Always Dreaming (2017), Nyquist (2016), and American Pharoah (2015) complete the list, with Justify and American Pharoah later achieving Triple Crown glory.
Kentucky Derby 2025 Schedule (Times in ET)
The Kentucky Derby 2025 schedule covers two main days, with times in Eastern Time (ET, UTC-5), local to Louisville. Gates open at 9:00 AM each day.
| Date | Sessions | |
| May 2 | Kentucky Oaks (11:00 AM) | Oaks Race (5:51 PM) |
| May 3 | Kentucky Derby (11:00 AM) | Derby Race (6:57 PM) |
Where to Bet
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Betting Odds and Favorites
Journalism leads as the 3-1 favorite (25% implied probability), with strong contenders like Sandman and Tiztastic in the mix, per Bovada. The $5 million purse offers $3.1 million to the winner. Check the latest Kentucky Derby 2025 odds before placing bets.
Betting Tips and Markets
Quick Tips for Success
Wear a hat as it’s a Derby tradition, especially for the Oaks’ “Pink Out” on May 2 in support of breast cancer awareness. Sip a Mint Julep, the event’s iconic drink. Monitor contenders like Journalism for last-minute odds shifts as you watch and bet on Kentucky Derby 2025 with confidence.
Last updated: May 2, 2025
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Reviewed by Felipe Morgante
