The Kentucky Derby has always been an intersection of athletic excellence, fashion, and celebrity. The 151st running at Churchill Downs in 2025 was no exception. But this year, gymnast Simone Biles truly stole the show. Her electrifying presence and signature style left a mark on the historic event. In this article, we take you behind the scenes to explore Simone Biles' Kentucky Derby 2025 experience, her standout "Riders Up" moment, and some exclusive insights into her life beyond gymnastics.

Simone Biles Makes History at Kentucky Derby 2025

On May 3, 2025, Simone Biles graced Churchill Downs not just as a guest but as a central figure. She was honored with delivering the iconic "Riders Up" call before the Start of the 151st Kentucky Derby—a tradition that sets the mood for the intense horse race ahead. Biles appeared in a stunning lavender ensemble designed by The Hat Girls, complete with a dazzling fascinator and vibrant accessories. Her appearance captured the attention of both fans and media, making the phrase "simone biles kentucky derby 2025" trend across platforms.

Her star power added extra excitement to an already highly anticipated day. According to USA Today’s in-depth coverage, Olympian Simone Biles delivered the legendary command with grace, further bridging the worlds of Olympic sports and horse racing. The event itself saw Sovereignty emerge victorious, but Biles' participation was among its most talked-about highlights.

A Red-Carpet Affair: Style, Family, and New Ventures

Biles' presence at the Kentucky Derby 2025 was more than a celebrity cameo. She and her husband, NFL safety Jonathan Owens, enjoyed a rare day out, mixing leisure with the fascinating spectacle of the Derby. In an exclusive E! News interview conducted during Derby festivities, Simone and Jonathan spoke candidly about their family plans, expressing joy about their future together. Biles emphasized her excitement about eventually starting a family, saying, “I've always wanted to be a mother.”

To top off her trip to Louisville, Simone also celebrated a milestone away from the track. Just before departing for the Derby, she proudly unveiled her latest entrepreneurial venture, a new restaurant called Taste of Gold, at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport. As featured in People Magazine, the restaurant pays homage to her Olympic legacy and is set to open by the end of 2025. Her journey from Houston to Louisville beautifully illustrates her multifaceted success.

Star-Studded Crowds and Memorable Moments

The Kentucky Derby 2025 hosted more than 147,000 attendees, with crowds undeterred by drizzling rain and high anticipation. As always, the Derby served as a showcase for both fashion statements and celebrity appearances. Biles’ lavender look garnered significant praise for its elegance, while her charismatic personality lit up both the red carpet and the broadcast screens.

Beyond her own achievements, Biles interacted with fellow stars, fans, and Derby regulars. She remains a powerful inspiration, modeling how athletes can transcend sport and influence culture, business, and lifestyle trends.

Kentucky Derby 2025 Recap: A Day of Champions

While Simone Biles added star quality, the main event delivered its usual thrills. Sovereignty took home the garland of roses, narrowly defeating Journalism in a muddy, action-packed race. For a comprehensive look at how the race unfolded—along with details on winners, earnings, and more—refer again to USA Today's live updates. These behind-the-scenes insights enhance your appreciation for the spectacle of Derby Day and the role Simone Biles played this year.

Conclusion: Simone Biles' Lasting Derby Legacy

Simone Biles at the Kentucky Derby 2025 exemplified the meeting of sports greatness and entertainment. From her heartfelt "Riders Up" command to her poised red-carpet style and inspirational interviews, Biles continues to break barriers and inspire fans everywhere. Whether at Churchill Downs or launching new ventures in Houston, she demonstrates that champions never stop striving for excellence—in sport, business, or life.

Stay tuned as Biles’ journey unfolds, both on and off the world's biggest stages. If you want more on her latest projects and family life, check out this E! News interview or her ongoing achievements featured in People Magazine.