The Kentucky Derby is back this weekend with visitors and viewers alike preparing their extravagant hats and mint juleps for the annual Run for the Roses.
The storied event takes place Saturday, May 2, at Churchill Downs in Louisville. This year marks the 152nd edition of the first leg of the Triple Crown, one of the most prestigious horse racing events worldwide.
Last year’s race broke viewership records, bringing its broadcaster, NBC, around 21.8 million viewers, the highest in almost three decades.
While up to 20 horses can run the race, three of the qualifying 3-year-old thoroughbreds have already been scratched from this year’s event.
To race in the Kentucky Derby, contestants must qualify through a series of prep events hosted around the world. Horses that accumulate the most points across the races then earn a coveted spot at the Kentucky-based race. Regardless of weather, contestants will race a 1.25-mile track.
Horse racing also comes with betting, with this year’s Kentucky Derby featuring a $5 million total purse, with $3.1 million allocated to the winner.
How to watch the 2026 Kentucky Derby
For those who are unable to attend in person, the Kentucky Derby is broadcast around the country. NBC will air the race live for those watching via traditional TV. The race will also be available to stream with a Peacock subscription.
Programming is set to begin at 2:30 p.m. ET, featuring the Kentucky Derby undercard, a series of high-stakes races offering more betting opportunities for fans. Early coverage will start at noon ET on Peacock to watch the nine undercard races.
The flagship Run for the Roses kicks off at 6:57 p.m., and is dubbed the “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” as it concludes at around the two-minute mark.