To bet on the Kentucky Derby, you can follow these steps:
- Choose a Betting Platform
Use a sportsbook or betting site that offers Kentucky Derby wagering. Popular options include FanDuel, TwinSpires (the official betting partner of Churchill Downs), and other licensed sportsbooks available in many states
- Register and Fund Your Account
Sign up for an account on the betting platform, complete any necessary identity verification, and deposit funds to place bets
- Understand the Bet Types
- Win: Bet on a horse to finish first.
- Place: Bet on a horse to finish first or second.
- Show: Bet on a horse to finish first, second, or third.
- Exacta: Pick the first two finishers in exact order.
- Trifecta: Pick the first three finishers in exact order.
- Superfecta: Pick the first four finishers in exact order.
- Super High Five: Pick the first five finishers in exact order
- Consider Early Betting with Future Wagers
You can bet early on your favorite horse to win the Kentucky Derby through the Kentucky Derby Future Wager, which locks in odds before the final field is set. These futures are available during several periods leading up to the Derby
- Place Your Bet
On Derby week, once the final field and post positions are announced (usually by Monday or Tuesday), you can place your bets on the specific horses. Advance wagering typically opens about 24 hours before the race
- Betting Strategy Tips
- For beginners, stick with simpler bets like Win.
- For more excitement, try exacta or trifecta bets involving the favorite and other contenders.
- Consider expert picks and odds to guide your choices; for example, Journalism, Sovereignty, and Sandman are top contenders for 2025
- Watch the Race and Collect Winnings
After placing your bet, watch the race live or via streaming on the betting platform, and collect your winnings if your bet is successful
In summary, start by registering on a sportsbook like TwinSpires or FanDuel, understand the types of bets you can place, consider betting early with futures, and then place your bets once the final field is set. Use expert odds and tips to inform your choices for the best chance at winning
