Kentucky Derby 2026: The Puma scratched, field now 19 horses

The Kentucky Derby field is now 19 horses, down from the maximum 20. This is the sixth time in eight years the race has had fewer than 20 starters.
By Newsroom | Sports, Horse Racing |

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The 152nd Kentucky Derby, scheduled for Saturday evening, will proceed with 19 horses after The Puma was officially scratched due to swelling in its leg, a condition attributed to a skin infection. The withdrawal, confirmed Saturday morning, occurred less than 12 hours before the designated 6:57 p.m. ET post time.

The elimination of The Puma leaves the Derby field at 19 horses, marking the sixth time in the past eight years that the race has featured fewer than the maximum 20 starters. This late scratch also meant that Corona de Oro, who was next on the also-eligible list, could not be substituted into the field, as the deadline for such a move had passed.

Kentucky Derby at 19 horses with The Puma out - 1

Multiple Scratches Precede Race Day

The Puma is the latest in a string of withdrawals leading up to the main event. Silent Tactic was ruled out on Wednesday, followed by Fulleffort on Thursday, and Right to Party on Friday. These scratches allowed Great White, Ocelli, and Robusta to gain entry into the race.

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Horse's Condition and Future Plans

Assistant trainer Gustavo Delgado Jr., son of trainer Gustavo Delgado Sr., indicated that the decision to scratch The Puma was straightforward. He stated the horse had developed swelling from a skin infection and that the swelling should resolve within a couple of days. Despite the withdrawal, The Puma is expected to remain at Churchill Downs for approximately a week and is unlikely to be entered in the Preakness Stakes on May 16. Officials confirmed that all wagers placed on The Puma will be refunded.

The Puma, previously listed with 8-1 odds, was considered one of the horses to watch. His removal further alters the landscape of the highly anticipated race.

Read More: Kentucky Derby 2026: 3 horses scratched, new horses added to field

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was The Puma scratched from the 152nd Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026?
The Puma was scratched because of swelling in its leg, caused by a skin infection. This decision was made Saturday morning, less than 12 hours before the race.
Q: How many horses are now in the 2026 Kentucky Derby after The Puma was scratched?
With The Puma scratched, the Kentucky Derby field is now 19 horses. This means the race will not have its maximum of 20 starters, which has happened often in recent years.
Q: Can Corona de Oro enter the Kentucky Derby 2026 now that The Puma is out?
No, Corona de Oro cannot enter the race. It was next on the list of eligible horses, but the deadline to add a horse had already passed.
Q: What happens to bets placed on The Puma for the Kentucky Derby 2026?
All bets made on The Puma will be refunded to the bettors. This is standard procedure when a horse is scratched from a race.
Q: Will The Puma race in the Preakness Stakes after being scratched from the Kentucky Derby 2026?
It is unlikely. The Puma is expected to stay at Churchill Downs for about a week, and its trainer does not plan to enter it in the Preakness Stakes on May 16th.