The Kentucky Derby was off to an excellent start this year as it managed to receive a record number of bets for the particular race, for the day, and for the week. According to sources, betting on the card for the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs was at $349 million - up by 9% from last year.

In spite of the rain and a slightly smaller crowd, Churchill Downs posted new handle records during the 151st Run for the Roses. Not even soggy weather could slow down the betting frenzy surrounding the 151st Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs Inc. reported record-breaking handle numbers across the board despite a rain-soaked day at the historic racetrack, as Sovereignty surged to victory in the famed Run for the Roses.

Derby Day handle soars to $349 million

All-sources wagering on the Derby Day card totaled an impressive $349 million - an increase of 9% from last year's $320.5 million. The betting total for the marquee race itself, featuring 19 horses this year, reached $234.4 million, an increase of 11% from the previous record of $210.7 million set during a 20-horse field in 2024.

These numbers defied expectations, especially as Churchill Downs officials had earlier indicated that results might remain flat year-over-year following last year's 150th milestone edition.

Derby week also sets records

The full Kentucky Derby week saw all-sources handle climb to $473.9 million, topping last year's record of $446.6 million by 6%. Combined wagering for the Kentucky Oaks and Derby days hit $422.9 million - an increase of 7% over 2024's $395.8 million. These figures also reinforce the Kentucky Derby's status as a premier sporting event not only in terms of attendance but also as a major betting attraction nationally and internationally.

Churchill Downs' online wagering platform, TwinSpires.com, saw its own impressive milestones. Total Derby Day wagers placed through the service reached $108 million - a 17% jump from last year's $92.1 million. For the Derby race alone, TwinSpires handled $73 million in bets, representing a staggering 20% increase over the previous record of $60.9 million in 2024.

The crowd during Derby Day was estimated at 147,406, down by 6% from 2024's 156,710. The wet conditions likely contributed to the decline, though Churchill Downs still drew one of the largest crowds in American horse racing. The all-time attendance record of 170,513 set in 2015 remains intact.

Churchill Downs anticipates strong financial performance

Despite the dip in attendance and some underperforming ticket segments, Churchill Downs expects Derby week adjusted EBITDA to be its second-best ever, falling between $2 million to $4 million shy of last year's record. In 2024, the company reported Derby week EBITDA growth of between a total of $26 million and $28 million.

In a previous investor call held April 24, CDI Chief Executive Officer Bill Carstanjen acknowledged that certain lower-tier tickets, such as those for the newly launched Starting Gate Pavilion, sold below expectations.

We weren't able to go right to our long-term price target for that new area as we've done in past years, Carstanjen noted, emphasizing that the market for premium experiences wasn't as strong as it had been during the post-pandemic surge.

Looking ahead with optimism

Still, Carstanjen remains optimistic about future pricing and development strategy. "Part of our plan for the Derby has always been to introduce new areas and grow their value over time. This year might have taken a jolt, but we're confident in the long-term demand," he said.

The success of Sovereignty's win and the record-breaking wagering figures demonstrate that the Kentucky Derby remains an enduring spectacle, withstanding both market shifts and uncooperative weather. As the dust settles from the 151st edition, Churchill Downs sets its sights on 2026, aiming to grow what is already one of the most lucrative and celebrated events in American sports.