Leading up to the race, Journalism emerged as the morning-line favorite at 3-1 odds. Trained by Michael McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, Journalism entered the Derby with a four-race winning streak, including a notable victory in the Santa Anita Derby.
Other prominent contenders included Sovereignty at 5-1 odds and Sandman at 6-1. Sovereignty, trained by William Mott, had shown consistent performances in the lead-up races, while Sandman, under trainer Mark Casse, had secured a win in the Arkansas Derby.
Luxor Cafe, a Japanese-bred horse sired by American Pharoah, attracted attention with 15-1 odds. Despite having raced exclusively in Japan, Luxor Cafe’s impressive late burst in the Fukuryu Stakes positioned him as a potential dark horse.
Field Adjustments and Late Entries
The Derby field experienced notable changes shortly before the race. Rodriguez, initially slated to compete, was scratched due to a minor foot bruise. This allowed Baeza, previously an also-eligible horse and runner-up to Journalism in the Santa Anita Derby, to enter the race with 12-1 odds.
Additionally, Grande was scratched following a veterinary examination that revealed a cracked heel, leaving trainer Todd Pletcher without a Derby starter for the first time since 2003.
Betting Strategies and Payouts
With a $5 million purse on the line, bettors explored various wagering options, including exactas, trifectas, and superfectas. Experts highlighted the potential value in exotic bets, especially given the competitive field and the possibility of upsets.
Final Gambit, at 30-1 odds, was noted for his closing ability, making him a candidate for inclusion in trifecta and superfecta bets. Similarly, Chunk of Gold, another longshot, was considered a potential spoiler that could enhance exotic payouts.
Race Outcome and Historical Context
As the “Run for the Roses” commenced at 6:57 p.m. ET, the field of 19 horses vied for victory over the 1¼-mile distance. The race’s outcome added a new chapter to the storied history of the Kentucky Derby, reflecting the unpredictability and excitement that define this premier event in horse racing.
Viewing Information
The 2025 Kentucky Derby was broadcast live on NBC, with coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET. Fans could also stream the event via Peacock, ensuring widespread access to the festivities and the race itself.
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