The Kentucky Derby field is limited to a maximum of 20 horses each year. This limit has been in place since 1975. However, the actual number of horses competing can be fewer due to scratches or other reasons. For example, in the 2020 Kentucky Derby, although 18 horses initially qualified, only 15 competed after some were scratched
. In the most recent 2025 Kentucky Derby, there were 20 post positions available, but only 19 horses competed due to multiple scratches
. So, while the official maximum number of horses in the Kentucky Derby is 20, the actual number of starters can vary slightly each year depending on entries and scratches.
