What is Kentucky Derby 2026 purse? See how much money winner will earn
What is the purse for Kentucky Derby 2026 at Churchill Downs? See how much money the Run for the Roses winner will earn, all-sources handle record.
For the third straight year, the Kentucky Derby purse will be $5 million when the 152nd Run for the Roses takes place on May 2. The amount became a new record in 2024 with Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen calling it "a symbol of the health of horse racing in Kentucky.
" The purse money is split up between the top five finishers. Since 2024, the winner of the Derby has received $3. 1 million while the runner-up gets $1 million.
Similarly, Derby betting continues to increase, with the all-sources handle for Derby Day reaching a record $349 million in 2025. That number was $320. 5 million in 2024 and $288.
7 million in 2023. “It is truly gratifying to view the steady growth of the Churchill Downs racing product and the entire Kentucky horse racing and breeding industry, which bettors around the world have embraced,” Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson said in a statement. “Through the purses generated by the racing association and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund, Kentucky horsemen and horsewomen are reaping the benefits of Churchill Downs Incorporated’s historic investment as we celebrate this year’s milestone 150th Kentucky Derby.
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