Kentucky Derby 2026: Date, Schedule, Horses, Tickets and How to Watch the 152nd Run for the Roses
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The Kentucky Derby returns in 2026 with its 152nd running scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at Churchill Downs in Louisville. According to the official schedule, the race is set to start in the early evening, continuing a tradition that draws global attention to what is widely known as the most famous horse race in the United States.
A little bit more on Kentucky Derby’s history
First held in 1875, the Kentucky Derby has developed into a long-standing sporting event that blends competition with tradition.
The name Churchill Downs traces back to the Churchill family—specifically John Churchill, a 19th-century Louisville landowner whose family donated the land for the racetrack—while “downs” is an English term for rolling grassy fields, together evoking the pastoral landscape that has defined this iconic venue in Louisville since its founding.
Run annually at Churchill Downs, it has maintained continuity for more than a century, becoming a central part of American horse racing culture. The event is often associated with customs such as the presentation of roses to the winner and its place as the opening leg of the Triple Crown series.
The race itself is restricted to three-year-old thoroughbreds and is contested over a distance of 1¼ miles on a dirt track. A maximum of 20 horses qualify through the official “Road to the Kentucky Derby” system, which awards points based on performances in designated prep races. Only the top point earners secure a place in the starting gate.
getting there from miami
Kentucky Derby is held in Louisville, at the iconic racetrack Churchill Downs. From Miami International Airport (MIA), the most seamless route to Derby weekend begins with a direct flight into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), approximately 2.5 hours, followed by a 10–15 minute chauffeured transfer to your hotel or directly to Churchill Downs.
For a more elevated arrival, private aviation via Bowman Field (LOU) offers closer access and reduced congestion during race weekend. High-end guests typically base themselves in the city’s popular hotels, including The Brown Hotel, 21C Museum Hotel Louisville, and Omni Louisville Hotel—all within a short drive of the track and well-positioned for private car transfers. Please note there aren't true 5-start hotels in
Plan a minimum three- to four-night stay to fully experience the surrounding events, including Oaks Day, exclusive soirées, and post-race gatherings. Due to road closures and heavy traffic, pre-arranged black car service or hotel-coordinated transfers are essential, with departures to Churchill Downs ideally scheduled early in the day to ensure a smooth, unhurried arrival.
Derby Week featured events
The Kentucky Derby is the highlight of a broader schedule known as Derby Week, which begins in the days leading up to the main event.
The official calendar includes multiple race days and culminates with the Kentucky Oaks on May 1, 2026, followed by the Derby itself. Each day features its own set of races and activities, forming a structured progression toward the main race.
Opening Day (April 25) Marks the start of Derby Week with live racing, entertainment, and the post-position draws for the Derby and Oaks.
Sunday Funday (April 26) The return of Sunday racing with brunch experiences, morning cocktails, and a relaxed start to the week’s celebrations.
Dawn at the Downs (April 23–29, 7 a.m.) Morning workouts where fans can watch Derby and Oaks contenders train and follow preparations.
502’sDay (April 28) A community-focused event encouraging local shopping and celebrating Louisville culture, with low-cost general admission.
Winsday (April 29) A charity-driven race day where ticket proceeds help support local nonprofit organizations.
Thurby (April 30) A celebration of Kentucky’s culture, history, and music, combined with a full day of racing.
Kentucky Oaks (May 1) A major race for three-year-old fillies, known for its traditions and the “Pink Out” in support of breast cancer awareness.
Kentucky Derby (May 2) The main event of the week and the first leg of the Triple Crown, held at Churchill Downs.
THE STAKES
The Kentucky Derby is not only the most famous race in American thoroughbred racing, but also one of the richest, with a total purse of $5 million. The lion’s share goes to the winner, who typically earns approximately $3.1 million, while the remaining purse is distributed among the top five finishers on a sliding scale—rewarding not just victory, but elite placement on racing’s biggest stage.
Beyond the official purse, connections benefit from significant breeding and stud value, as a Derby win can dramatically elevate a horse’s future earning potential. Owners, trainers, and jockeys also divide the winnings according to pre-arranged agreements, with jockeys commonly receiving around 10% of the winner’s share. In many ways, the Derby’s financial impact extends far beyond race day, often defining the long-term value and legacy of both horse and stable.
Kentucky Derby contenders and leaderboard
For 2026, the final list of contenders will only be confirmed closer to race day, once the qualifying points standings are complete.
The official Kentucky Derby website tracks these standings and provides updates on horses competing. This evolving field reflects results from prep races and determines which horses will ultimately compete at Churchill Downs. See as it stands.
Commandment — 150 points
Renegade — 125 points
Fulleffort — 110 points
The Puma — 106 points
Silent Tactic — 100 points
Emerging Market — 100 points
Pavlovian — 70 points
Incredibolt — 60 points
Golden Tempo — 60 points
Class President — 50 points
Stark Contrast — 50 points
Chief Wallabee — 50 points
Iron Honor — 50 points
Potente — 50 points
Chip Honcho — 49 points
Universe — 38 points
Grittiness — 36 points
Further Ado — 35 points
Nearly — 35 points
Litmus Test — 34 points
Blackout Time — 25 points
Robusta — 25 points
Intrepido — 23 points
Talk to Me Jimmy — 20 points
Great White — 20 points
Bravaro — 20 points
Buetane — 16 points
Napoleon Solo — 15 points
So Happy — 15 points
Confessional — 15 points
Talkin — 10 points
Ottinho — 6 points
Cannoneer — 4 points
Cherokee Nation — 3 points
Courting — 2 points
Ticketing options
For the Kentucky Derby 2026, expect ticket prices to range from about $200 for infield general admission to $1,500–$3,000 for quality reserved seating, with premium and VIP experiences reaching $5,000–$10,000+, depending on access, amenities, and timing of purchase.
Ticketing options for the 2026 Kentucky Derby are available through the official website and include a range of experiences. General admission provides access to the infield, while reserved seating options offer assigned views of the track.
What can you bring to the Kentucky Derby 2026?
When preparing for your visit to Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week, review the guidelines outlining which items are allowed and which are prohibited inside the venue.
All guests will go through metal detector screening before entry throughout Derby Week (from Opening Day through Derby Day). Visitors attending Oaks and Derby events should plan to arrive early to allow time for security checks at all gates.
Any prohibited items must be returned to your vehicle or disposed of before entering. Churchill Downs is not responsible for items left at entrances, and such items may be discarded. Re-entry is not permitted. Once you leave the venue, you cannot return using the same ticket.
Guests are encouraged to follow the “If you see something, say something” principle. Report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 502-636-4526.
Policies may be updated at any time, and any item considered unsafe or inappropriate may be denied entry.
Kentucky Derby Week Bag Policy
From Saturday, April 25, 2026, through Derby Day (Saturday, May 2, 2026), Churchill Downs will enforce a limited bag policy. Each guest may bring one bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″.
The following items are not allowed:
Alcoholic drinks
Bags exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″
Balloons or inflatable items
Banners or signs (unless pre-approved)
Cameras with detachable lenses or lenses 6” or longer
Cans of any kind
Collapsible chairs (except where noted for Infield Gate)
Collapsible chairs with canopies
Confetti
Coolers
Drones or remote-controlled aircraft
Firearms
Food (Opening Day through Thurby)
Glass containers or bottles
Grills
Hoverboards, skateboards, and scooters
Illegal substances
Laser pointers or lights
Luggage or duffel bags
Noise-making devices (air horns, fireworks, etc.)
Music players without headphones
Pets (excluding trained service animals)
Poles or sticks, including selfie sticks
Portable speakers or sound systems
Projectiles (e.g., Frisbees, balls)
Seat cushions larger than 15″ x 15″ with metal parts, zippers, pockets, or flaps
Tents or canopies
Thermoses
Tripods
Umbrellas of any size
Wagons (unless designed as a stroller and accompanied by a child)
Weapons of any kind (chains, knives, pepper spray, etc.)
Any item deemed unsafe or inappropriate
Exceptions Allowed at Frontside Gates (Derby Week)
Baby and diaper bags (must be with a child and are subject to search)
Strollers and stroller wagons (must be with a child)
Additional Exceptions for Kentucky Oaks & Derby (Frontside Gates)
Guests may bring boxed meals or food in clear plastic bags or containers within the size limit (12″ x 6″ x 12″)
Food must fit inside the guest’s single permitted bag or a one-gallon clear Ziploc-style bag (trash bags are not allowed)
Only one bag per guest is permitted; extra food bags are not allowed
Exceptions Allowed at the Infield Gate
Boxed meals or food in clear plastic bags/containers within the size limit (12″ x 6″ x 12″), fitting in one bag or a one-gallon clear Ziploc-style bag
Up to two sealed, clear plastic water bottles (maximum 24 oz each) per person
Collapsible camping chairs without canopies (must be removed from bags for inspection)
Tarps or picnic blankets smaller than 10’ x 10’ (cannot be attached to fences or permanent structures inside the venue)
Where to watch the Kentucky Derby 2026?
The 2026 Kentucky Derby will be broadcast live on NBC, with streaming available via Peacock, as listed on the official schedule. Coverage includes the full race day program, leading up to the main event in the evening, allowing audiences to follow the event from anywhere.