The Kentucky Derby 2025 is finally here. Today, thousands of fans gather at Churchill Downs while millions watch from home. It’s one of the biggest days in horse racing. People call it “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” for a reason.
If you plan to watch, you need to know exactly when the race starts and how to watch it. This guide gives you everything in one place. You’ll find the official post time, how to stream free, the full TV schedule, and a free printable schedule you can use at home.
Whether you’re watching with friends or betting on a horse, this schedule will help you follow every moment.
Kentucky Derby 2025 Post Time
The official post time for the Kentucky Derby 2025 is 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). That’s when the horses will leave the gate for the main event.
Here’s what time the race starts in different U.S. time zones:
- Eastern Time (ET): 6:57 p.m.
- Central Time (CT): 5:57 p.m.
- Mountain Time (MT): 4:57 p.m.
- Pacific Time (PT): 3:57 p.m.
- Alaska Time (AKT): 2:57 p.m.
- Hawaii Time (HST): 12:57 p.m.
Here’s the post time in some popular international locations:
- United Kingdom (BST): 11:57 p.m.
- Ireland (IST): 11:57 p.m.
- France (CEST): 12:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Germany (CEST): 12:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Netherlands (CEST): 12:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Japan (JST): 7:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Australia (AEST): 8:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Hong Kong (HKT): 6:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Singapore (SGT): 6:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
- Bangladesh (BST): 4:57 a.m. (Sunday, May 4)
Make sure you set a reminder so you don’t miss the start.
Today’s Full Race Day Schedule
Here’s what today’s race day looks like:
- 10:30 a.m. ET – Derby Day live coverage starts on FanDuel TV
- 12:00 p.m. ET – Early coverage starts on USA Network and Peacock
- 2:30 p.m. ET – Main coverage begins on NBC & Peacock
- 3:00 p.m. ET to 6:30 p.m. ET – Undercard races and pre-race features
- 6:57 p.m. ET – Kentucky Derby post time
- 7:30 p.m. ET (approx.) – Post-race interviews and analysis
Derby Day Full Broadcasting Timetable:
| DATE | TIME | EVENT | TV CHANNEL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, May 3rd | 12 p.m.-7:30 p.m. ET | 151st Kentucky Derby (Post Time: 6:57 pm ET) | 10:30 a.m. – Noon. ET FanDuel TV Noon – 2:30 p.m. ET USA & Peacock 2:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ET NBC & Peacock 7:30 p.m. ET– Last Race FanDuel TV |
When Do the Gates Open at Churchill Downs?
The gates at Churchill Downs open at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Fans arriving early can enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment before the races begin.
If you’re going in person, it’s smart to arrive early to avoid long lines and get a good spot. If you’re watching from home, tune in around noon when coverage begins.
Download the Printable Kentucky Derby 2025 TV Schedule
Want to follow along easily? We’ve created a free printable TV schedule that lists all the coverage times for today. You can print it out and keep it nearby while you watch.
The schedule shows the start times for pre-race shows, undercard races, and the main event. It also lists the TV channels so you know exactly where to watch.
Click here to download the printable TV schedule (PDF)
Print it out to follow along with family or friends. It’s also great if you’re betting and want to stay organized. We’ve also created a printable Kentucky Derby 2025 horses list with odds – you can download it here.
Where to Watch the Kentucky Derby 2025 Live
You can watch the Kentucky Derby live on TV or online. In the United States, NBC is the official broadcaster. Coverage starts at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC and runs until after the race.
If you’d rather stream it, you can watch live on Peacock, the NBC Sports app, or NBCSports.com. These options work on your phone, tablet, smart TV, or laptop. It’s perfect if you’re on the go or not near a TV.
If you’re watching outside the U.S., check your local sports channels. In the UK, you can watch on Sky Sports Racing or ITV Racing. In Australia, you can tune in on Sky Racing.
Can I watch the Kentucky Derby race live stream for free?
Yes, you can watch the Kentucky Derby live for free if you’re smart about it. Some streaming platforms give free trials to new users. You can sign up for FuboTV, YouTube TV, or Hulu + Live TV and watch the race that way. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends so you don’t get charged.
If you already have cable, you can stream the race on NBCSports.com or the NBC Sports app by logging in with your TV provider. In the UK, you can watch on ITV Racing. In Australia, it’s on Sky Racing. Access may depend on your country or provider.
It’s a good idea to set it up early so you’re not rushing at race time.
Top Horses to Watch in the Kentucky Derby 2025
This year’s Kentucky Derby lineup is packed with talent. Here are a few top contenders to watch:
- Journalism: The morning-line favorite at 3-1 odds. Known for speed and consistency.
- Sovereignty: Starting from post 18. A strong finisher who could close fast.
- Sandman: A steady runner with recent top-three finishes.
- Burnham Square: A dark horse with impressive speed figures who could surprise the field.
Every horse earned a spot through qualifying races. Post positions and track conditions could play a big role in how they perform. Fans are watching closely to see who comes out on top.
Remember – the official post time is 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time. Be sure to tune in early so you don’t miss any of the coverage leading up to the race.
Print your schedule, pick your horse, and get ready to cheer. Enjoy the race, and may your favorite horse wear the roses at the end!
