Publication date: 14 Aug 2025
About the Kentucky Derby Horse Race
The Kentucky Derby is one of the three premier horse races in the United States and marks the traditional start of the U.S. Triple Crown series. Since 1875, the race has been held annually in Louisville, Kentucky, at the legendary Churchill Downs. The race distance is 1.25 miles (approximately 2 km), and the event lasts about two minutes. Every year, around 150,000 spectators attend the racetrack to witness the spectacle in person, while millions more watch on television and online.
The Kentucky Derby kicks off the famous Triple Crown series, which also includes the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore and the Belmont Stakes in New York.
2026 Kentucky Derby
In 2026, the race will take place on Saturday, May 2. This will be the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby, often called “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Horses will compete over the classic 1¼-mile distance, with thousands of spectators filling the stands at Churchill Downs.
Derby Week is not just about the race—it is a full-scale celebration. From April 30, Louisville hosts parades, parties, and exhibitions. On Friday, May 1, the traditional Kentucky Oaks—a race for fillies—takes place. The main event begins on Saturday evening, drawing attention from across the country.
The Kentucky Derby is more than a sporting event; it is a showcase of style, tradition, and festive atmosphere. Spectators enjoy elegant attire and iconic hats, and the symbolic Mint Julep cocktail has become an inseparable part of the celebration.
History and Traditions
The first Kentucky Derby was held on May 17, 1875, in front of 10,000 spectators. Fifteen horses competed, and the winner was the colt Aristides, ridden by jockey Oliver Lewis.
Over time, owners began sending their thoroughbreds to compete in the other Triple Crown races.
In 1919, Sir Barton became the first horse to win all three Triple Crown races.
In 1925, the Kentucky Derby was broadcast on radio for the first time on WHAS and WGN stations.
The first television broadcast occurred in 1949.
The record for the fastest time in Derby history is 1:59, set by Secretariat in 1973.
A particularly notable tradition is the fashionable ladies’ hat show, which American women adopted from British style.
Previous horse race results
| The year | Venue | Results |
| 2025 | Churchill Downs Racetrack, Louisville, Kentucky, USA | Jockey: Junior Alvarado
Horse: Sovereignty |
| 2024 | Churchill Downs Racetrack, Louisville, Kentucky, USA | Jockey: Brian Hernandez Jr.
Horse: Mystik Dan |
| 2023 | Churchill Downs Racetrack, Louisville, Kentucky, USA | Jockey: Javier Castellano
Horse: Mage |
2027 Kentucky Derby
The 153rd Kentucky Derby is tentatively scheduled to take place on May 1, 2027.
Official Kentucky Derby website
Keep an eye on the dates of horse races and other events in our Sports Events Calendar.
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