Louisville, KY - The starting gate for the 2026 Kentucky Derby is nearly set, with a 20-horse field slated to compete on Saturday, May 2nd. The race is scheduled to begin at 6:57 p.m. ET from Churchill Downs. This year's event boasts a substantial $5 million purse, with the winner set to claim $3.1 million. Television coverage will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock, with pre-race programming commencing at 2:30 p.m. ET.
Three horses have been scratched from the original lineup since the post position draw on April 25th, prompting the inclusion of three also-eligibles to maintain the full 20-horse field. The withdrawals include Fulleffort, sidelined with an ankle injury, and Silent Tactic, who suffered a foot injury. Right to Party was the third horse scratched. The incoming horses are Great White, Ocelli, and Robusta.
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The Contenders and Their Numbers
Post position 1 is occupied by Renegade, listed at 5-1, making it the current favorite according to some reports. Other notable contenders include Commandment at Post 6 (6-1 or 7-1, depending on the source) and Further Ado at Post 18 (6-1 or 7-1). Chief Wallabee (Post 12) and So Happy (Post 8) are also drawing attention with odds around 8-1 and 6-1 respectively.
The established format for the Kentucky Derby is the 1 1/4 mile (10 furlong) race. Historically, Post 5 has been the most successful starting position, having produced the most winners. This year, however, there is no horse assigned to Post 5 in the provided lists.
Betting Lines and Insights
Betting pools for Pick 6, Pick 5, and Pick 4 races are now open. While odds fluctuate, some fixed odds are being reported. Commandment is being offered at 6-1, with Renegade at 9-2. Other horses with noted odds include Potente at 15-1. Betting options extend to exactas, trifectas, and superfectas, with potential payouts for specific top-three and top-four finishes.
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The Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) race appears to be a key indicator, with Commandment finishing first and Chief Wallabee second. Emerging Market also secured a win in a previous race, alongside Pavlovian.
A Glimpse into the Derby's Fabric
The Kentucky Derby, alongside the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, forms the coveted 'Triple Crown' of horse racing. Official programs, available for a fee, provide in-depth past performances and details, while free printable versions offer essential race-day information. The draw for post positions, a critical factor in a horse's chances, typically occurs in late April.
