Looking ahead to the 2025 Kentucky Derby

On Saturday, May 3^rd, we welcome the return of the longest-running sporting event in America – the Kentucky Derby. With roots going back to 1874, this prestigious horse racing event is one of the most highly anticipated of the year. And, with prep races well underway, it’s time to take a look at the possible frontrunners for this year.

Ready to re-visit Churchill Downs? In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the horses to look out for in this 151^st iteration – and throwing our hat in the ring with our top pick.

Top 7 bettors’ favorites

As one of the biggest historical sporting events of the year, many people anticipate placing their first bets on the Derby. But, before jumping in, having a broad understanding of top picks and favorites can help you make well-informed decisions. Though, of course, many have personal favorites or lucky numbers – so don’t let us stop you! All the top apps for sports betting will be offering enticing bonuses to attract customers before one of their biggest days of the year. View bettors’ favorites, race schedules and compare odds before making your picks, and then enjoy the day!

So, ready to choose your favorites? Here are some of the top expert picks for this year’s Kentucky Derby:

H3: Citizen Bull

Citizen Bull is a Bob Baffert colt and the top pick for this year’s Derby. As the 2024 champion, the 2-year-old was named the 6-1 favorite in Pool 4. He was also named the overall winner of the Grade 3 Robert B. Lewis on February 1st 2025, so this well-seasoned horse is definitely staying in many back pockets this year.

Barnes

Another Bob Baffert colt, though slightly less familiar with the track. Barnes is a healthy 3-year-old and the second-choice favorite in Pool 3 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager (KDFW). He was also the San Vicente (Grade II) winner earlier in February.  He remains a top favorite for this year’s race, alongside stablemate Citizen Bull.

All other 3-year-olds

‘All other 3-year-olds’ recently closed as a mild favorite in Pool 3 of the KDFW, though he remains the public bettor’s overall top pick. The age of this horse won’t surprise you, nor will the fact that he is sitting in the third-favorite position behind Citizen Bull and Barnes.

Burnham Square

Perhaps an unexpected pick, Burnham Square has been named a few bettors’ favorite, while sitting pretty mildly in the tables. A Witham Thoroughbred homebred, the horse won the Holy Bull (G3), running an impressive race from last place to first, soaring past race favorite Tappan Street.

Sandman

Next up in the running is Mark Casse colt, Sandman. He finished in a tense second in the Southwest Stakes after a troubling trip, which, according to Casse, was ‘significant work’ and proves that he’s more than ready. The colt debuted in June 2024, though didn’t place. However, in his second-ever run in August, he finished first at Saratoga. Certainly a horse full of determination.

Sovereignty

A Godolphin homebred, Sovereignty, the 3-year-old is known for his impressive 5-length win on his third start – after rallying from 9^th place. Before this impressive show at Churchill Downs, he was a very tidy runner-up in his second outing at Aqueduct. On the right day, many see the youngster as a threat on the track, so one to watch!

East Avenue

Another Godolphin colt, East Avenue placed first by 5 ½ lengths in October 2024 at the Breeders’ Futurity (G1) in Keeneland. Besides his win, many look on in awe at the young colt, whether training or racing, with his rider and trainer both deeming him a ‘very special horse’, ‘classic’ in his form. With raw talent and reputation behind him, who knows what will come of this year’s Derby?

Our underdog pick:

The above 6 colts are widely agreed as the overall favorites for the 151^st Derby. However, we also have a top pick of our own. We love an underdog story.

Tappan Street

This Brad Cox 3-year-old colt has made a name for himself in the past year. While he’s only been racing since 2024, he placed second in the Holy Bull behind underdog Burnham Square. He also had a strong December in 2024, winning the GP MSW at Gulfstream Park. We’ve seen Brad Cox pull a champion out of nowhere before, and we’re hoping he’ll do it again!

The 151^st Kentucky Derby is a mere 2 months away. The riders are ready, the horses are itching to get started – but there are still a few races to be won beforehand to see where your favorites will place. Keep an eye out for the latest Kentucky Derby news with us, so you know where to place your bets when the time comes.