Kentucky Derby 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to the 151st Run for the Roses
Welcome to the most comprehensive guide to the 2025 Kentucky Derby! Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or enjoying your first Derby experience, this guide will ensure you’re fully prepared and informed about this iconic event.
When and Where is the Kentucky Derby 2025?
- Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
- Time: 6:57 PM EDT
- Location: Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky
The Kentucky Derby is known worldwide as “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.” This historic horse race is famous for its thrilling finishes, vibrant traditions, and exciting atmosphere.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 151st Kentucky Derby (Run for the Roses) |
| Date | Saturday, May 3, 2025 |
| Location | Churchill Downs, Louisville, KY |
| Post Time | 6:57 PM ET |
| Race Number | Race #12 of 14 |
| Purse | $5 million (Winner gets $3.1 million) |
| Top Contenders | Journalism, Sovereignty, Sandman, Burnham Square, Luxor Café |
| How to Watch (TV) | NBC, USA Network, FanDuel TV |
| Streaming Platforms | NBC Sports App, NBCSports.com, Peacock |
| Top Trainer (Return) | Bob Baffert returns with Citizen Bull after 3-year suspension |
| Top Favorite Horse | Journalism (3-1 odds, trained by Michael McCarthy) |
| Best Value Pick | Burnham Square (12-1 odds) |
| Recommended Longshot | Coal Battle (30-1 odds), trained by Lonnie Briley |
| Fashion Highlight | Fascinators, colorful suits, classic Derby hats |
| Special Guests | Simone Biles (‘Riders Up’), Grace Potter (National Anthem) |
| Signature Drink | Mint Julep (traditional Kentucky Derby cocktail) |
| Main Betting Types | Win, Place, Show, Exacta, Trifecta |
| Popular Bet Strategies | Exacta/Trifecta boxes with Journalism, Sovereignty, Baeza, and others |
| Responsible Gambling Info | National Council on Problem Gambling: 1-800-GAMBLER |
| Official Hashtag | #KentuckyDerby2025 |
How to Watch the Kentucky Derby 2025
You can enjoy the race on various platforms, making sure you won’t miss the excitement, no matter where you are.
- TV Channels: NBC, USA Network, FanDuel TV
- Streaming Options: NBC Sports App, NBCSports.com, Peacock
Kentucky Derby 2025 Horses and Betting Odds
Here’s a clear and easy-to-understand overview of the main horses to watch in the 2025 Kentucky Derby:
- Journalism (3-1 odds): Highly favored, trained by Michael McCarthy, and ridden by jockey Umberto Rispoli.
- Sovereignty (5-1 odds): Trained by Bill Mott with jockey Junior Alvarado, known for strong finishes.
- Sandman (6-1 odds): Mark Casse-trained, ridden by Jose Ortiz, consistent performance in races.
- Burnham Square (12-1 odds): Trained by Ian Wilkes, ridden by Brian Hernandez Jr., noted for a powerful closing run.
- Luxor Café (15-1 odds): Promising international horse from Japan, trained by Noriyuki Hori, ridden by Joao Moreira.
Special Highlight: Trainer Bob Baffert’s Return
Legendary trainer Bob Baffert returns to the Kentucky Derby after a three-year suspension, making headlines with his entry, Citizen Bull (20-1 odds).
Kentucky Derby 2025 Betting Guide
Understanding how to bet can enhance your Derby experience. Here’s a simple breakdown of betting options:
Types of Bets:
- Win: Horse finishes first.
- Place: Horse finishes first or second.
- Show: Horse finishes first, second, or third.
- Exacta: Pick the first two horses in exact order.
- Trifecta: Pick the first three horses in exact order.
Recommended Betting Strategies:
- Beginners may prefer safer bets like Place or Show.
- Experienced bettors might try Exacta or Trifecta for bigger rewards.
- Consider value bets on horses like Burnham Square, Luxor Café, or Coal Battle for higher payouts.
Exciting Traditions at Kentucky Derby 2025
The Derby is famous for its traditions, adding to the festive atmosphere:
- “Riders Up” Call: By Olympic star Simone Biles.
- National Anthem: Performance by musician Grace Potter.
Derby Fashion: What to Wear
Fashion is a huge part of the Kentucky Derby. Embrace the occasion:
- Ladies: Elegant dresses and hats or fascinators.
- Gentlemen: Bright suits, bow ties, and classic hats.
Food and Drink at Churchill Downs
Enjoy classic Derby fare such as mint juleps, bourbon cocktails, gourmet dishes, and traditional southern cuisine.
Responsible Gambling at the Kentucky Derby
Always bet responsibly and set a budget. Seek assistance from organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling (1-800-GAMBLER) if needed.
Expert Coverage by the Courier Journal
Stay informed through live updates and detailed coverage provided by professional journalists from the Louisville Courier Journal, including Josh Wood, Kirby Adams, Maggie Menderski, Amanda Hancock, and more.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying the Kentucky Derby 2025
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it’s a celebration of sport, tradition, and culture. Use this guide to fully enjoy and appreciate every moment of this exciting event.
Enjoy the thrill of the race and have a fantastic Derby Day 2025!
