Kentucky Derby 2026: Date, time, longshots, how to watch and more

The 2026 Kentucky Derby is almost here, kicking off the Triple Crown season. Early weather forecasts look clear, setting up ideal racing conditions. Renegade grabbed the No. 1 post but still leads the odds at 4-1.Fans can catch the race live on NBC, with streaming on Peacock. Post time is set for 6:57 p.m. ET on Saturday evening. Extra coverage will also run on NBCSN, giving viewers full race-day access. Here’s all about the Kentucky Derby 2026 you need to know.The 2026 Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 2. It marks the return of the iconic Run for the Roses.Coverage begins at 12 p.m. ET on Peacock and NBCSN. The main broadcast on NBC starts at 2:30 p.m. ET. The official post time is set for 6:57 p.m. ET.Fans can watch the race live on NBC and stream it on Peacock. NBCSN will also carry extra coverage, including Kentucky Oaks Day. Across both days, NBC Sports will air 16 live races.Schedule for Kentucky Derby 2026:Here is the broadcast schedule for the 152nd Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. Please note that while general coverage begins at the times you mentioned, the actual post times (when the races start) occur later in the broadcast window.The Main Event: The Kentucky Derby (Race 12 on the Saturday card) is scheduled for a post time of approximately 6:57 PM ET.The Oaks: The Kentucky Oaks (Race 13 on the Friday card) is scheduled for a post time of 8:40 PM ET.Early Birds: For those looking to catch the very first races of the day, the first post at Churchill Downs is at 11:00 AM ET on Saturday.Here are the top 3 favorites of the Kentucky Derby 2026, according to Lineups–Note: Odds are based on information available online.