The most thrilling two minutes in sports returns on the first Saturday in May: the Kentucky Derby 2025. As anticipation builds for this iconic event at Churchill Downs, fans and bettors alike are eager to learn which horses to watch, what the latest odds are, and how to make smart wagers. In this guide, we'll break down the top contenders, betting strategies, and major storylines so you're ready for Kentucky Derby 2025.

Key Kentucky Derby 2025 Storylines

The Kentucky Derby is steeped in tradition, drama, and unforgettable moments. Each year brings new favorites and unexpected underdogs:

• Journalism enters as the 3-1 morning-line favorite. However, recent history shows that favorites haven't fared well. The post-time favorite has missed out on victory for six straight years, so surprises can always happen.
• The international field is once again strong. Japanese contenders like Admire Daytona and Luxor Cafe have been making waves. Luxor Cafe in particular comes on a four-race win streak, including notable performances on wet tracks.
• Legendary trainers Bob Baffert and Bill Mott are both back with strong prospects: Baffert's Citizen Bull and Mott's Sovereignty (currently 5-1 odds) are both generating buzz.
• This year also introduces some compelling underdog stories, including Chunk of Gold, purchased for just $2,500 and ready to take on the best in the field.

For more on these storylines and key details about the 151st running, check out this in-depth ESPN guide to Kentucky Derby 2025.

Top Contenders and Betting Odds

The 2025 field features established favorites, rising longshots, and promising international entrants. Here are names you need to know:

• Journalism (3-1): Highly touted but facing a strong lineup of challengers.
• Sovereignty (5-1): A deep closer who impressed in the Florida Derby and is seen as trainer Bill Mott’s best chance yet.
• Sandman (6-1): Gained attention with a powerful Arkansas Derby win, though some experts question his maturity under pressure.
• Burnham Square (12-1): A closer with a convincing win in the Blue Grass and building momentum.
• Luxor Cafe (15-1): Arrives from Japan on a hot streak and is sired by Triple Crown winner American Pharoah.
• Baeza (12-1): Drew into the field after a key scratch and comes in with strong late speed.

A full list of contenders, odds, and deep analysis can be found on CBS Sports’ Kentucky Derby 2025 preview.

How to Bet on the Kentucky Derby 2025

Bettors flock to the Kentucky Derby for a reason—the big field, unpredictable pace, and huge pools create plenty of wagering options. Here are some quick tips:

• Win, Place, Show Bets: These are the most straightforward. Pick a horse to finish first, second, or third.
• Exacta/Trifecta/Superfecta: For bigger payouts, try picking the top two, three, or four finishers (in order). Boxing bets lets your selections finish in any order within your box.
• Look for Value: Recent longshot winners show that the Derby rewards bold picks. Horses like Burnham Square and Baeza offer solid chances at a price. Experts also suggest keeping an eye on Luxor Cafe, whose international form could translate well to Churchill Downs.

Don’t miss these pro tips and in-depth Derby 2025 betting strategies, including options on how to construct trifecta and exacta wagers.

Expert Predictions and Horses to Watch

While most eyes are on Journalism, experts warn that a Derby favorite isn’t a sure thing. Horses like Sovereignty and Burnham Square have drawn strong reviews from the backstretch. Longshots, such as Final Gambit and Chunk of Gold, add intrigue for value seekers.

Jody Demling, a respected analyst who’s nailed 11 Derby-Oaks Doubles, recommends keeping an eye on Luxor Cafe as a big-odds contender. Find his picks and reasoning in this CBS Sports breakdown of the Derby field.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Action

The Kentucky Derby 2025 promises top-tier competition, high drama, and plenty of opportunities—both for fans and bettors. Whether you’re cheering for an established favorite or rooting for an underdog, this year’s Run for the Roses could yield some truly unforgettable moments. Dive deeper into the stories and strategies with the recommended expert resources above, and get ready to enjoy the action at Churchill Downs!