The 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. A total of 20 horses will compete in one of the most storied races in horse racing history, an event known for its rich tradition and high stakes.
Excitement Builds as Field and Post Positions Are Set
Fans have been closely monitoring the race as the field and post positions have been confirmed. The excitement is mounting as top contenders prepare for the big event. Renegade enters the race as the early favorite but faces a significant challenge starting from the first post position. The inside gate has not produced a winner for decades; the last horse to win from that position was in 1986. Meanwhile, The Puma has garnered strong backing in recent weeks. Recent history also shows that favorites do not always win this race, adding to the unpredictability and excitement of the 2026 edition.
Kentucky Derby 2026 Venue
The race will take place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the traditional home of the Kentucky Derby since its inception in 1875. The event is always scheduled for the first Saturday in May, a tradition that began in 1932 and has largely continued ever since.
Kentucky Derby 2026: When and Where to Watch
The race itself is expected to begin at approximately 6:57 p.m. ET, though the exact timing may shift slightly depending on pre-race arrangements. Coverage will run throughout the day. NBC will begin broadcasting in the afternoon, while earlier races and additional coverage will be available through streaming platforms.
Kentucky Derby 2026 Field and Post Positions List
The field for this year includes strong contenders such as Renegade, The Puma, Commandment, and So Happy. Renegade drew the first post position, which is historically difficult. The last winner from this position came in 1986. The complete field is as follows:
- Renegade
- Albus
- Intrepido
- Litmus Test
- Right to Party
- Commandment
- Danon Bourbon
- So Happy
- The Puma
- Wonder Dean
- Incredibolt
- Chief Wallabee
- Silent Tactic (Scratch)
- Potente
- Emerging Market
- Pavlovian
- Six Speed
- Further Ado
- Golden Tempo
- Fulleffort (Scratch)
- Great White
- Ocelli
Kentucky Derby 2026 Winner Prize Money
The race features a total prize purse of $5 million. The winner is expected to earn approximately $3.1 million, while the second-place finisher will receive close to $1 million. The prize money has surged significantly in recent years, making the event even more competitive.
