The Kentucky Derby 2026 is set to deliver another unforgettable day of elite horse racing at Churchill Downs. Known as the “Run for the Roses,” this iconic Grade 1 event attracts global attention with its thrilling atmosphere, competitive field, and historic tradition. If you’re planning to follow the action, knowing the official post times, full race schedule, and updated post positions is essential to stay on track throughout Derby Day.
Kentucky Derby 2026 Date and Key Timings
The 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 2, 2026. The excitement begins early in the day, with gates opening at 9:00 a.m. ET, allowing fans to soak in the full Derby Day experience. The first race kicks off at 11:00 a.m. ET, setting the stage for a packed schedule of races leading up to the main event.
The highlight of the day, the Kentucky Derby race, is scheduled for 6:57 p.m. ET, making it one of the most anticipated moments in the global horse racing calendar.
Full Kentucky Derby 2026 Race Schedule
Here is the complete Kentucky Derby 2026 post time schedule for all races on Derby Day:
What Time is Post Time for the Kentucky Derby
- Gates Open — 9:00 AM
- Race 1 — 11:00 AM
- Race 2 — 11:32 AM
- Race 3 — 12:05 PM
- Race 4 — 12:38 PM
- Race 5 — 1:12 PM
- Race 6 — 1:53 PM
- Race 7 — 2:38 PM
- Race 8 — 3:23 PM
- Race 9 — 4:06 PM
- Race 10 — 4:50 PM
- Race 11 — 5:39 PM
- Kentucky Derby (Main Race) — 6:57 PM
- Race 13 — 8:00 PM
- Race 14 — 8:33 PM
This full-day lineup ensures non-stop racing action, giving fans plenty of opportunities to follow their favorite horses and place informed bets.
Kentucky Derby 2026 Horses and Updated Post Positions
The 2026 Kentucky Derby field features a strong mix of favorites and long shots. Below are the updated post positions with morning line odds, including scratched entries:
| Post | Horse Name | Odds | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Renegade | 4-1 | Active |
| 2 | Albus | 30-1 | Active |
| 3 | Intrepido | 50-1 | Active |
| 4 | Litmus Test | 50-1 | Active |
| 5 | Right to Party | — | SCR |
| 6 | Commandment | 6-1 | Active |
| 7 | Danon Bourbon | 20-1 | Active |
| 8 | So Happy | 15-1 | Active |
| 9 | The Puma | 10-1 | Active |
| 10 | Wonder Dean | 30-1 | Active |
| 11 | Incredibolt | 20-1 | Active |
| 12 | Chief Wallabee | 8-1 | Active |
| 13 | Silent Tactic | — | SCR |
| 14 | Potente | 20-1 | Active |
| 15 | Emerging Market | 15-1 | Active |
| 16 | Pavlovian | 30-1 | Active |
| 17 | Six Speed | 50-1 | Active |
| 18 | Further Ado | 6-1 | Active |
| 19 | Golden Tempo | 30-1 | Active |
| 20 | Fulleffort | — | SCR |
| 21 | Great White | 50-1 | Active |
| 22 | Ocelli | 50-1 | Active |
| 23 | Robusta | 50-1 | Active |
Scratched horses include Right to Party, Silent Tactic, and Fulleffort, which may impact betting strategies and race dynamics.
Final Thoughts
The Kentucky Derby 2026 schedule and post positions offer everything racing fans need to prepare for Derby Day. With a full slate of races, competitive entries, and a prime-time main event, this year’s Derby promises high drama and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re watching for entertainment or analyzing contenders, staying updated on post times and horse positions will give you a clear edge throughout the day.