Kentucky Derby 2025: Date, Start Time, Channel, Streaming and How to Watch

The Kentucky Derby is not just another horse race; it is a prestigious event that has been a staple in American horse racing since 1875. As the first leg of the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes, the Kentucky Derby holds a special place in the hearts of horse racing enthusiasts.
This year marks the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby, and the excitement surrounding the event is palpable. With coverage on network TV, cable, and streaming services, fans from all over the world can tune in to witness the thrilling race.
Scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 3 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, the 2025 Kentucky Derby promises to be a spectacle of speed, skill, and determination. Viewers can catch the action starting at 12:00 p.m. EST/9:00 a.m. PST on the USA Network, with NBC taking over coverage at 2:30 p.m. EST/11:30 a.m. PST. Additionally, Peacock subscribers can stream the entire event from start to finish, making it easier than ever to watch the Kentucky Derby.
Only 20 horses are eligible to compete in the Kentucky Derby, with each horse and rider earning points in the Road to the Kentucky Derby competitions held between September and April. The competition is fierce, with horses vying for a chance to make their mark in this prestigious race.
As for the favorites to win the 2025 Kentucky Derby, trainer Michael McCarthy’s horse Journalism is leading the pack. With McCarthy’s experience and expertise, Journalism is poised to make a strong showing in the race. Veteran trainers like D. Wayne Lukas, who has won the Kentucky Derby four times before, and Bob Baffert, a seven-time winner, are also contenders to watch out for.
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it is a tradition that brings together the best in the sport for a day of thrilling competition. Whether you watch from the stands at Churchill Downs or from the comfort of your own home, the Kentucky Derby is a must-see event for horse racing fans everywhere.