2026 Kentucky Derby: What You Need To Know on May 2, Including Start Time & Latest Odds

This Saturday brings us the “Run for the Roses” with the 2026 edition of the Kentucky Derby . The beloved race at Churchill Downs is, arguably, the most popular of the three Triple Crown races and is sure to have a huge audience on May 2. If you plan to watch the 152nd Kentucky Derby this weekend, here is everything you need to know before the race, including the start time and latest betting odds.

When is the Kentucky Derby? This year’s Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 2, 2026. What is the 2026 Kentucky Derby start time?

Matt Stone/Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The derby is the 12th of 14 races scheduled on Saturday. This year’s “Run for the Roses” will have a 6:57 PM ET post time. What channel will the Kentucky Derby be on?

Just like previous years, the derby will air exclusively on NBC and stream on Peacock. Latest Kentucky Derby betting odds Below you can find the current betting odds for the 22 horses set to compete in this year’s Kentucky Derby. Renegade (4-1) Further Ado (6-1) Commandment (6-1) Chief Wallabee (8-1) The Puma (10-1) So Happy (15-1) Emerging Market (15-1) Danon Bourbon (20-1) Fulleffort (Scratched) Potente (20-1) Incredibolt (20-1) Silent Tactic (Scratched) Wonder Dean (30-1) Right to Party (30-1) Litmus Test (30-1) Golden Tempo (30-1) Albus (30-1) Pavlovian (30-1) Intrepido (50-1) Six Speed (50-1) Ocelli (50-1) Great White (50-1) How to bet on the Kentucky Derby There are many options to bet on Saturday’s race.