How much do Kentucky Derby jockeys make? Prize money breakdown for winners and runners-up at Churchill Downs

How much do Kentucky Derby jockeys make? Prize money breakdown for winners and runners-up at Churchill Downs originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here .

Horse racing is distinct from most other sports because the main subject isn't even a human. The horse that wins the Kentucky Derby is credited with the win, but a horse can't take any money home for itself — can it? In many ways, horse racing is a team sport.

Between a jockey, trainer, owner or owners and everyone else who helps put a horse in the best position possible to succeed, it takes a village to win an event like the Kentucky Derby. For jockeys, winning the iconic race can be life-changing. Here's what you need to know about prize money at the Kentucky Derby and what jockeys can walk away with.

MORE: What is the Triple Crown of horse racing? Kentucky Derby prize money breakdown The total Kentucky Derby purse is currently $5 million, with $3. 1 million (62 percent) going to the winner.