Kentucky Derby 2026: How to Watch on TV and Stream, Horses, Posts, Draws

Get ready for the 2026 Kentucky Derby, set to take place this weekend on NBC and Peacock. The race is the first leg of the Triple Crown and promises to be an exciting event. With 20 horses and jockeys competing at Churchill Downs in front of a lively crowd, there’s plenty to look forward to.

The Kentucky Derby kicks off on Saturday, May 2nd, with post time scheduled for 6:57 p.m. ET. Make sure to tune in early for undercard races throughout the afternoon. If you can’t catch it live on TV, you can also stream the race on Peacock starting at noon ET.

Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky is the place to be for this historic event. The track has been hosting the Derby since 1875, providing an iconic setting for the thrilling race.

Wondering who’s in the running this year? Here’s a list of the 20 horses set to compete, along with their jockeys, trainers, and odds to win. Keep in mind that the field may change due to injuries or other factors leading up to the race.

As for the prize money, the total purse is set at $5 million, with the winner taking home $3.1 million. Second, third, fourth, and fifth place winners will also receive substantial payouts.

One notable absence this year is Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, whose suspension from Churchill Downs extends through 2024. Despite his absence, the 2026 Kentucky Derby promises to be a memorable event filled with excitement, competition, and maybe even a few surprises.