While the Kentucky Derby may be the star of the show at Churchill Downs, this year's lineup proves that the real magic happens long before the roses are draped. Churchill Downs has put together a weekend of racing that industry insiders are already calling second only to November's Breeders' Cup World Championships. From the Kentucky Oaks to championship-caliber races in nearly every division, this is a can't-miss stretch for any racing fan.
But the action doesn't stop in Louisville. Across the pond, the first of the English Classics—the 2000 Guineas and 1000 Guineas—are set for Saturday and Sunday at Newmarket. Japan also returns to Grade 1 action with the Tenno Sho (Spring) on Sunday, and the first leg of Japan's Dirt Triple Crown is already in the books. Take a deep breath, because Derby weekend is about to deliver global highlights you won't want to miss.
In the $1 million Grade I Churchill Downs Stakes on Saturday, all eyes are on Bob Baffert's 2025 Triple Crown hopeful, Cornucopian, and Bill Mott's Knightsbridge, who rides an impressive four-race win streak into the 7-furlong test. But don't sleep on Banishing, winner of the Group 2 Godolphin Mile in Dubai, Japanese visitor T O Elvis, who looks like a serious contender, and Point Dume, who topped Book'em Danno in the Grade II Carter last time out. This is shaping up to be an excellent race.
One furlong farther in the $750,000 Grade II Pat Day Mile, a pack of Triple Crown nominees will battle it out. Keep an eye on Baffert's Crude Velocity and Cherie DeVaux's Englishman in the morning line. Great White was also noted here but drew into the Kentucky Derby—a testament to the depth of talent this weekend.
Female sprinters take center stage under the Twin Spires in Saturday's $1 million Grade I Derby City Distaff. Splendora, the reigning Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint winner, rides a five-race winning streak into the 7-furlong test. Yet, the morning line has Ways and Means as the 8-5 favorite—proving this race is as unpredictable as it is thrilling. Friday's $700,000 Grade II Eight Belles is for 3-year-old fillies at the same distance, adding even more star power to the weekend.
Older horses will tackle 1 mile out of the Churchill Downs chute in the $200,000 Knicks Go Stakes. If anyone deserves a win on Derby Day, it's trainer Chris Block. As head of the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, he's spending much of his time trying to keep Hawthorn alive. A victory here would be a fitting tribute to his dedication.
Whether you're gearing up for the Derby or just love world-class racing, this weekend at Churchill Downs is a reminder that the sport's biggest moments often happen beyond the spotlight. So grab your favorite racing gear and settle in—this is going to be one for the books.