The 151st Kentucky Derby is galloping into history today, May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, with the Kentucky Derby 2025 race time set for 6:57 p.m. ET. Fans are buzzing as the first leg of the Triple Crown unfolds, promising two minutes of heart-pounding action. Just hours ago, the latest odds shifted, with Journalism holding strong as the 4-1 favorite, while Sandman and Sovereignty trail closely at 5-1 and 6-1, respectively. Rain is forecast, adding intrigue to the track conditions. Whether you’re sipping a mint julep at home or cheering trackside, this year’s race is a must-watch spectacle. Let’s dive into the details that make this Derby unforgettable.
Kentucky Derby 2025 Race Time and How to Watch
The Kentucky Derby 2025 race time is locked in for 6:57 p.m. ET, airing live on NBC, with coverage kicking off at 2:30 p.m. ET. Early races start at noon on USA Network and Peacock, offering a full day of equine excitement. Streaming options include NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports app, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment. The race, dubbed “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” spans 1¼ miles, with 19 horses competing for a $5 million purse. Olympian Simone Biles will call “Riders Up,” and Grace Potter sings the national anthem, adding star power to the event.
Odds and Favorites: Who’s Leading the Pack?
Betting odds are a hot topic, with Journalism, trained by Michael McCarthy, dominating at 4-1 after four consecutive wins. Sandman, fresh off an Arkansas Derby victory, sits at 5-1, but experts like Jody Demling are fading him, citing tougher competition. Sovereignty, at 6-1, boasts a strong second-place finish in the Florida Derby. Longshots like Luxor Cafe (15-1), a son of American Pharoah, are drawing attention for their pedigree. Here’s a quick look at the top contenders:
| Horse | Odds | Trainer |
|---|---|---|
| Journalism | 4-1 | Michael McCarthy |
| Sandman | 5-1 | Mark Casse |
| Sovereignty | 6-1 | Bill Mott |
| Luxor Cafe | 15-1 | Shigenobu Umekawa |
Recent scratches, including Rodriguez and Grande due to foot injuries, have reshaped the field, dropping it to 19 horses. Baeza, a late entry at 17-1, could surprise after a close Santa Anita Derby run.
Kentucky Derby Channel and Viewing Tips
Wondering about the Kentucky Derby channel? NBC is your go-to, with Peacock streaming the entire day. Coverage starts early, capturing the pageantry, from extravagant hats to celebrity sightings. For the best experience, tune in by 2:30 p.m. ET to catch pre-race analysis. FanDuel TV also offers race-day content. If you’re hosting a Derby party, serve classics like Derby pie or bourbon balls to keep the vibe festive. Joshua Weissman, a chef collaborating with Churchill Downs, shared a 2025 “Kentucky Derby At-Home” menu, featuring rib roast and bourbon French toast—perfect for elevating your watch party.
Kentucky Derby 2025 Race Time: Weather and Track Impact
The Kentucky Derby 2025 race time could face a muddy track, with rain forecast throughout the day. Friday’s Kentucky Oaks saw puddles at Churchill Downs, and Saturday’s conditions may favor horses bred for wet surfaces. Journalism’s team remains confident, citing his versatility. Luxor Cafe, with Japanese training, has shown prowess in varied conditions, making him a sleeper pick. Trainers like Brad Cox, who won the Oaks with Good Cheer, are prepping for a slick track. Bettors are eyeing horses with strong mud pedigrees, adding a layer of strategy to wagers.
Stories and Surprises to Watch
Beyond the race, the Derby is a cultural phenomenon. Bob Baffert’s return after a suspension adds drama, though his top horse, Rodriguez, scratched. Trainer Lonnie Briley, a 72-year-old underdog, makes his Derby debut with Coal Battle at 30-1 odds, inspiring fans. Scott Jordan, the starter, ensures horses break cleanly from the gate, a critical role in a race where split seconds matter. AI predictions, like Microsoft Copilot’s, favor Journalism but warn of upsets, recalling last year’s 18-1 winner, Mystik Dan. The last four Derby winners had double-digit odds, so don’t count out the longshots.
Why This Derby Matters
The Kentucky Derby isn’t just a race; it’s a tradition steeped in history. The $3.1 million top prize and a shot at the Triple Crown fuel fierce competition. With 19 horses, from favorites like Journalism to dark horses like Baeza, the outcome is anyone’s guess. The muddy track, star-studded ceremonies, and betting frenzy keep viewers glued. As the gates open at 6:57 p.m. ET, the world will watch to see who claims the garland of roses. Will Journalism cement his legacy, or will a longshot steal the show? Grab your mint julep, tune into NBC, and find out.