Welcome to our 2026 Kentucky Derby Horse Profiles, where we break down every contender expected to enter the gate at Churchill Downs. Each profile covers past performances, running style, pedigree, and key strengths and weaknesses—giving you a complete snapshot of how every horse stacks up on racing’s biggest stage.
Renegade enters the Kentucky Derby off a powerful win in the Arkansas Derby (G1) at Oaklawn Park, where he finished fast yet still had something left in reserve—an effort that signals he’s peaking at the right time. He profiles as a grinding closer with a strong late punch, capable of sustaining a long run through the stretch, which fits the chaotic nature of this race. Likely to be among the favorites, the only knock is that he didn’t beat the deepest field in Arkansas, but visually, it’s hard to ignore just how good he looked.
Projected Odds: 4-1 (Projected ML Favorite)
Breeding: (Into Mischief – Spice Is Nice, by Curlin)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Jockey: Irad Ortiz, Jr.
Race Style: Grinder/Closer
Last 3 Beyers: 98-93-82
Pros:
- Strong finishing kick with something left late
- Peaking at the right time
- Stamina-driven style suits the Derby
- Likely favorite with top-level upside
- Jockey chose to ride him over Further Ado
Cons:
- Arkansas Derby field may have been weaker
- Could get overbet on recency bias
- Needs a clean trip to unleash late run
- Must prove it against deeper competition
Past Performances
Oaklawn Park — March 28, 2026 — Arkansas Derby (G1)
Finish: 1st
Tampa Bay Downs — February 7, 2026 — Sam F. Davis Stakes (Listed)
Finish: 1st
Aqueduct Racetrack — December 6, 2025 — Remsen Stakes (G2)
Finish: 2nd
Belmont Park — October 17, 2025 — Maiden Special Weight
Finish: 2nd
Saratoga Race Course — August 16, 2025 — Maiden Special Weight
Finish: 3rd
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2026 Kentucky Derby Horse Profiles
Looking to compare the full field? Check out every contender running in the 2026 Kentucky Derby:
