News Summary

• The 2026 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Lexington, Ky., will have a field of up to 20 thoroughbreds.
• The Grade 1 race over the 1 ¼-mile dirt track is open to just 3-year-old horses.
• The early Kentucky Derby co-favorites are Chief Wallabee and Paladin at 8-1.
• Other Kentucky Derby contenders include Commandment and Nearly at 12-1, followed closely by Renegade at 13-1 in the 2026 race.