The Kentucky Derby, the biggest event in horse racing, has arrived and promises to live up to its already massive hype at Churchill Downs. Fans can watch the event live for free on Virgin Media Player and paid options include Kayo Sports, Sky Sports, and Peacock TV.
As Saturday evening approaches, planning your Derby viewing around any other commitments you may have during this period is crucial. This guide will cover everything you need to know about how to watch Kentucky Derby live stream online.
Watch Kentucky Derby Live Stream
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN or PIAVPN.
- Download the VPN app.
- Connect to a server in Ireland.
- Log in to your Virgin Media Player account.
- Watch Kentucky Derby Live on Virgin Media Player!
When is Kentucky Derby
On Saturday, May 4th, 2024, the 150th edition of the Kentucky Derby will be held at Churchill Downs, the iconic and storied horse-racing venue in Louisville.
What is Kentucky Derby?
Considered by many as the cathedral of horse racing and The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports. Churchill Downs hosts the Kentucky Derby, America’s most prestigious annual race and the first jewel of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Since 1875, the Kentucky Derby has been a week-long celebration of excitement, suspense, and spectacle that brings people worldwide to Louisville.
While imagining the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of the Derby is easy, being there in person for the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby creates an unparalleled experience.
It’s no wonder that the Kentucky Derby is a must-see event, included in the popular book “1000 Places To See Before You Die“. Derby is also well-known for its elaborate fashion and hats and the race’s festive atmosphere.
Where to Watch Kentucky Derby Live
Aussie fans stream Kentucky Derby live from their homes via streaming services like Virgin Media Player, Peacock TV, and Sky Sports. Details for streaming the event are provided below.
Watch Kentucky Derby Live on Virgin Media Player
Horse racing fans can watch the Kentucky Derby live on Virgin Media Player. Fans have the opportunity to watch the race for free on Virgin Media Two (TV) and stream it online for free through Virgin Media Player. Whether you prefer watching on television or streaming online, Virgin Media has you covered.
Watch Kentucky Derby Live on Peacock TV
If you’re a horse racing fan and want to watch the 2024 Kentucky Derby live, you can watch it on Peacock TV. NBC is airing the event starting at 2:30 p.m. ET / 11:30 a.m. PT on Saturday, with live coverage. To access Peacock, you’ll need a subscription.
The Premium membership costs $5.99 a month, while the Premium Plus plan, which gives you an ad-free experience, is $11.99 a month. Peacock is not only a great streaming service but it’s also compatible with most popular streaming devices.
Watch Kentucky Derby Live on Sky Sports
You can watch the Kentucky Derby live on Sky Sports. While in the UK, both Sky Sports Racing and Racing TV will be covering the event. The main race is scheduled to start at 11:57 p.m. BST on Saturday. It’s sure to be an exciting event, and these channels will bring you all the joys and excitement of horse racing straight to your screen.
Watch Kentucky Derby Live on Kayo Sports
You can watch the Kentucky Derby live on Kayo Sports. Kayo Sports is a specialist streaming service that offers affordable, commitment-free plans starting from just $25 per month. So, if you’re looking to catch all the excitement of the Kentucky Derby without breaking the bank, Kayo Sports has got you covered.
Kentucky Derby 2024 Runners & Riders List
| Runners | Riders |
|---|---|
| Dornoch | Luis Saez |
| Sierra Leone | Tyler Gaffalione |
| Mystik Dan | Brian Hernandez Jr. |
| Catching Freedom | Flavien Prat |
| Catalytic | Jose Ortiz |
| Just Steel | Keith Asmussen |
| Honor Marie | Ben Curtis |
| Just a Touch | Florent Geroux |
| T O Password | Kazushi Kimura |
| Forever Young | Ryusei Sakai |
| Track Phantom | Joel Rosario |
| West Saratoga | Jesus Castanon |
| Endlessly | Umberto Rispoli |
| Domestic Product | Irad Ortiz Jr. |
| Grand Mo The First | Emisael Jaramillo |
| Fierceness | John Velazquez |
| Stronghold | Antonio Fresu |
| Resilience | Junior Alvarado |
| Society Man | Frankie Dettori |
| Epic Ride | Adam Beschizza |
Kentucky Derby 2024 Preview
The 2024 Kentucky Derby, scheduled for Saturday, May 4th at Churchill Downs, is gearing up to be an electrifying event. In its 150th running, the competition is fierce, with only 20 horses allowed in the field. As the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, the stakes are high as contenders vie for the prestigious title. Expert predictions and odds highlight favorites like Fierceness, Sierra Leone, and Catching Freedom, setting the stage for an intense battle on the iconic Churchill Downs track.
Adding to the excitement are trainers like Brad Cox, who has multiple entries in the race. Their quest for victory adds an extra layer of intrigue to the event. The Kentucky Derby post time is set for 6:57 p.m. ET, with live TV coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET, ensuring fans worldwide can witness the thrill firsthand. As anticipation mounts and the countdown to the “Run for the Roses” continues, all eyes are on Churchill Downs for what promises to be an unforgettable 2024 Kentucky Derby.
“An IMPOSSIBLE result here!”
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) May 2, 2024
It’s been 15 years since Mine That Bird (50-1) came from last to first to win the Kentucky Derby. #KyDerby pic.twitter.com/oVZrwHpLIm
What is the purse for Kentucky Derby 2024?
This year’s Kentucky Derby features an impressive total purse of $5 million, marking a significant increase of $2 million from last year’s sum of $3 million. The top prize winner stands to claim $3.1 million, a notable rise from the $1.86 million awarded last year.
The runner-up will receive $1 million, with the third-place contender securing $500,000. Fourth place carries a prize of $250,000, while fifth place earns $150,000. Among the Triple Crown races, the Kentucky Derby offers the highest purse. In comparison, both the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes provide purses of $2 million each this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do horses qualify for the Kentucky Derby?
Horses qualify for the Kentucky Derby through a series of races known as the “Road to the Kentucky Derby”, where points are awarded to the top finishers in each race.
What is the race distance of the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby race distance is 1¼ miles or 10 furlongs, and the race typically lasts around two minutes, earning it the nickname “the most exciting two minutes in sports.”
Where does the Kentucky Derby take place?
The Kentucky Derby is held at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
Who won the previous Kentucky Derby races leading up to 2024?
The winners of the Kentucky Derby from 2000 to 2023 include notable horses like Medina Spirit, Justify, American Pharoah, and California Chrome.
What are some key events leading up to the 2024 Kentucky Derby?
Events like Thurby on May 2, Kentucky Oaks on May 3, and the Kentucky Derby on May 4 are part of the Derby weekend schedule, offering a range of activities for attendees.
