When Is the Kentucky Derby 2025? See Date, Time & How to Watch

Sports season is at all times in movement. While many lovers sit up for basketball, soccer, or football, others eagerly watch for the go back of racing occasions like Formula One—or extra uniquely, the Kentucky Derby.

From its signature type to the electrifying festival, the Kentucky Derby attracts large consideration each and every yr. Fans internationally watch carefully as elite three-year-old thoroughbreds compete for a grand prize handbag of $5 million. As pleasure builds for the 2025 race, right here’s what you wish to have to grasp concerning the match and the right way to track in reside.

What Is the Kentucky Derby?

If you’re unfamiliar with how horses qualify for the Kentucky Derby, the professional web page outlines the method, “A tiered point system in select races will determine who qualifies to America’s greatest race. Each year 20 horses have the once in a lifetime chance to run in the Kentucky Derby. To earn a spot in the starting gate, they must travel along the Road to the Kentucky Derby, a series of designated races at tracks across the country and around the world.”

In addition, “Points are awarded to the top five finishers in each race. The 20 horses with the most points will earn a spot in the starting gate on the first Saturday in May. Churchill Downs introduced the ‘Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby’ to provide a potential entry in the Kentucky Derby for a horse based in Japan and the ‘European-Middle East Road to the Kentucky Derby’ extending an invite to European and Middle East horsemen as well.”

When and Where Is the 2025 Kentucky Derby?

This yr’s match will happen on Saturday, May 3, 2025, on the ancient Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky.

What Time Does the Kentucky Derby Start?

Live protection starts at 2:30 PM EST.

How Can I Watch the Kentucky Derby?

The 2025 Kentucky Derby might be to be had to circulate live to tell the tale Peacock, the NBC Sports app, and NBCSports.com.