What time is the Kentucky Derby on? Start time, channel, where to watch the Kentucky Derby live

Who’s ready for the most exciting two minutes in sports? Live from Churchill Downs in Louisville, it’s the 2026 Kentucky Derby!

It’s time to dust off your favorite mint julep recipe as we prepare for this year’s Kentucky Derby. Last year’s race was won by Sovereignty, while the betting favorite for the 152nd running of the beloved event is currently Renegade (4-1). Several experts are going against the favorite, with Kevin Kilroy picking Commandment (6-1), James Scully going with The Puma (10-1), and Kaitlin Benson selecting Chief Wallabee (8-1) to win it all.

The top thoroughbred horses collide at the 2026 Kentucky Derby. From start time to free live stream info, here’s how to watch all the action live on NBC and Peacock.

What Time Does The Kentucky Derby Start?

NBC’s coverage of the Kentucky Derby begins at 2:30 p.m. ET, but the post time for the 151st Kentucky Derby is scheduled for approximately 6:57 p.m. ET.

Where To Watch The Kentucky Derby 2026 Live:

You can watch the 2026 Kentucky Derby live on NBC, the NBC app, or NBC.com (with a valid cable login).

The only way to watch shows airing live without cable is by using a live TV streaming service. Our favorite is DIRECTV, which comes with a five-day free trial before payment begins.

DIRECTV offers a number of flexible subscription options, including Genre Packs, so you can best choose which streaming plans fit your needs and budget. Plans start at $49.99/month.

You can also stream the race live on Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Peacock, or Sling TV (in select markets). YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer free trials for new subscribers.

Is The Kentucky Derby Streaming Live on Peacock?

Yes! You can watch this year’s Derby live on Peacock, with coverage beginning at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Peacock is available for $10.99/month ($109.99/year) or $16.99/month for the ad-free Premium Plus option. One final option: You can bundle Apple TV and Peacock for $14.99/month.

Does Peacock Offer a Free Trial?

You can also add Peacock to your Prime Video account for an additional $16.99/month. The best part? Amazon offers a seven-day free trial!

Instacart+ now comes with a subscription to Peacock Premium at no extra cost (a $109.99/year value). Instacart+ is available for $99.00/year or $9.99/month, and offers a 14-day free trial.

The Kentucky Derby is scheduled for approximately 6:57 p.m. ET on NBC.

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