Where to watch the Kentucky Derby: Live stream the 2025 race from anywhere
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Jon Durr/Cal Sport Media/Sipa USA via Reuters Connect
The Kentucky Derby returns for the 151st race this weekend. We've compiled everything you need to know about where to watch the Kentucky Derby, including global live streaming options for those without cable.
More than 150,000 people descend each year on Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, to watch some of the best race horses compete. While the whole day features exciting races, the official Kentucky Derby race doesn't occur until the evening — and it's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it event. The race, slated for 6:57 p.m. ET, lasts just two minutes across 1.25 miles of track.
Simone Biles will deliver the iconic "Riders Up" command, and Gina Miles will sing the National Anthem. The Kentucky Derby is the first of the three Triple Crown races each season, followed by the Preakness Stakes in late May and the Belmont Stakes in early June.
Below, you can find all the necessary details about how to watch the race from around the world. If you're in the US, Peacock will be the cheapest option, but we'll also highlight some of the other live streaming services that can help you out.
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Where to watch the Kentucky Derby in the US
Coverage of the Kentucky Derby will kick off on Saturday at noon ET on the USA Network, before switching over to NBC at 2:30 p.m. ET for the rest of the event. But if you only want to watch the big race, you don't need to tune in until much later. The Kentucky Derby race kicks off at 6:57 p.m. ET sharp and will last about two minutes.
Cord-cutters have several avenues to explore, the cheapest of which is Peacock. It will carry coverage all day, beginning at noon. Subscriptions start at $8/month or $80/year for the Peacock Premium tier, which carries ad-supported on-demand streaming and a selection of live events like the Kentucky Derby. You can upgrade to Peacock Premium Plus for ad-free on-demand content and 24/7 NBC live streaming.
If you'd rather watch through the NBC and USA channels through a live TV streaming package, then Sling TV, DirecTV, and Fubo will be able to help you out. Sling TV is the cheapest of the bunch, with subscriptions starting at just $46/month (your first month is only $25.50, though). You'll need to opt for Sling Blue to access USA and NBC, in addition to about 40+ other popular live channels. Just keep in mind that NBC and local channel availability varies from region to region, so you should make sure the network is available in your zip code before subscribing.
Looking for something with a free trial? In that case, DirecTV or Fubo is the way to go. DirecTV Entertainment costs $85/month, includes 90+ channels like USA and NBC, and comes with a five-day free trial. Fubo Pro costs $85/month, includes 150+ channels like USA and NBC, and comes with a seven-day free trial. Fubo will also knock $20 off your first month of service.
How to watch the Kentucky Derby in the UK
The Kentucky Derby will air on Sky Sports in the UK. Sky TV plans vary by contract, but ones that include Sky Sports start at £35/month. This option comes with tons of other live channels and a Netflix subscription. Or, you can get a Now TV Sports subscription. Single-day passes cost £15/day.
How to watch the Kentucky Derby from anywhere
If you're traveling away from home and still hoping to access one of the streaming services we've highlighted today, then it might be time to try out a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs let you change your virtual location so that your electronic device can access its usual websites and apps from anywhere in the world. ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market, thanks to its user-friendliness and impressive selection of cybersecurity features. You can learn more about it in our ExpressVPN review, and keep reading to see how to use a VPN.
How to watch the Kentucky Derby with a VPN
- Sign up for a VPN if you don't already have one.
- Install it on the device you're using to watch the race.
- Turn it on and set it to the location of your streaming service.
- Sign up for one of the above streaming services if you don't already have an account.
- Enjoy the Kentucky Derby!
Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.