The Kentucky Derby is known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," and the 2026 edition promises to deliver all the heart-pounding action you can handle. With 19 of the fastest horses in the world set to thunder down the track at Churchill Downs on Saturday at 6:57 p.m. ET, there's never been a better time to get in on the action. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or just looking to add some thrill to your Derby day, our betting guide has everything you need to place smart, confident wagers.
Let's start with the contenders. According to the latest odds, Renegade is the betting favorite at 4-1, but he's got plenty of company at the top. Commandment and Further Ado are both sitting at 6-1, while Chief Wallabee is close behind at 8-1. Don't overlook the longshots, either. Legendary trainer Bob Baffert, who's chasing a record-setting seventh Kentucky Derby victory, is sending out two horses: Litmus Test at 30-1 and Potente at 20-1. With 17 Triple Crown wins to his name, Baffert's horses always have a puncher's chance, so these double-digit odds might be worth a second look.
Getting started is easier than you think. To bet on the Kentucky Derby, you'll need to use official horse racing betting apps like TwinSpires, FanDuel Racing, DK Horse, or 1/ST BET—sportsbook apps won't work for this race. Simply create an account, deposit some funds, and select the Churchill Downs track. Head to Race 12 for the Kentucky Derby itself, and pick the "Win" wager if you want to bet on who crosses the finish line first. Wagering is open until post time at 6:57 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 2.
Looking for bigger payouts? That's where exotic bets come in. Wagers like Trifectas (picking the top three finishers in exact order) and Superfectas (picking the top four) can turn a small bet into a massive score. For example, you can win a share of $1 million if your Kentucky Derby picks hit just right.
To boost your bankroll, take advantage of the best Kentucky Derby promo codes available. The TwinSpires promo code CBSSPORTS gets you up to a $400 signup bonus, while FanDuel Racing offers new users a $25 racing bonus with just a $5 bet. Other top offers include the 1/ST BET promo code and DK Horse promo code. These sign-up bonuses give you extra funds to play with, making your Derby day even more exciting.
Whether you're backing the favorite, taking a flier on a Baffert longshot, or diving into exotic wagers, the 2026 Kentucky Derby is your chance to be part of racing history. Grab your mint julep, pick your horse, and get ready for two minutes of pure adrenaline.