When is the Kentucky Derby post position draw? Date, contenders, early odds

Elizabeth Flores, USA TODAYFri, April 24, 2026 at 12:00 PM UTC

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2026 Kentucky Derby contender Albus on the backside at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The horse is trained by Riley Mott. April 20, 2026

The 2026 Kentucky Derby, which marks the first and arguably most anticipated leg of the Triple Crown, is quickly approaching. The 152nd edition of the iconic Run for the Roses will be held at the legendary Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 2.

Often dubbed "the most exciting two minutes in sports," the Kentucky Derby is open exclusively to three-year-old Thoroughbreds and is contested over a distance of 1 1/4 miles on the dirt track at Churchill Downs.

Among the early favorites is Renegade, whose impressive victory at the Arkansas Derby has garnered significant attention. Commandment, fresh off a win at the Florida Derby, and The Puma, a consistent performer throughout the spring season, are also viewed as top contenders for the coveted garland of roses.

The lineup of elite horses competing in this year's prestigious American Grade I stakes race will be officially determined during the post position draw on Saturday, April 25.

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When is the Kentucky Derby post position draw?

The draw for post positions at the 2026 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at 2:15 p.m. ET. This event will determine the starting gate assignments for the 152nd Run for the Roses.

When is the 2026 Kentucky Derby?

The 152nd Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026. Fans can view the Kentucky Derby on NBC and USA Network, with streaming available on Peacock.

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026

Time: 2:30 p.m. ET - 7:30 p.m. ET

TV: NBC, USA Network

Stream: Peacock

Location: Churchill Downs (Louisville, Kentucky)

2026 Kentucky Derby contenders and early odds

Odds via CBS Sports.

Renegade | early odds: 9-2

Commandment | early odds: 5-1

Further Ado | early odds: 6-1

The Puma | early odds: 10-1

Chief Wallabee | early odds: 10-1

Danon Bourbon | early odds: 15-1

Emerging Market | early odds: 15-1

Fulleffort | early odds: 15-1

So Happy | early odds: 15-1

Potente | early odds: 20-1

River Thames | early odds: 20-1

Silent Tactic | early odds: 20-1

Incredibolt | early odds: 30-1

Albus | early odds: 30-1

Chip Honcho | early odds: 30-1

Golden Tempo | early odds: 30-1

Iron Honor | early odds: 30-1

Wonder Dean | early odds: 30-1

Pavlovian | early odds: 30-1

Right to Party | early odds: 30-1

Six Speed | early odds: 30-1

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When is the 2026 Kentucky Derby post position draw? Date, horses info

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