The annual Kentucky Derby has once again captivated audiences with its thrilling spectacle – a hallmark of the sport! Recognized as the most exhilarating two minutes in sports, this prestigious annual race took place in Louisville, Kentucky, at the iconic Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 3. With the race’s dramatic conclusion leaving fans buzzing, many are eager to discover not only who emerged victorious but also who secured the coveted multi-million-dollar prize that comes with this esteemed title.

On that exciting Saturday, NBC and Peacock provided a live broadcast of the Derby, showcasing the event’s grandeur to a wide audience. This network has a long-standing reputation for covering major sports events, particularly the much-anticipated Olympic Games. To kick off the event with flair, none other than Olympic champion Simone Biles led the traditional “Riders Up” call, adding an inspiring touch to the festivities.

Continue reading to find out the winner of the 2025 Kentucky Derby and delve deeper into the fascinating details surrounding this annual equestrian event that draws attention from around the globe.

The 2025 Kentucky Derby Champion: Who Took Home the Title?

In a thrilling showdown, Sovereignty claimed victory at the 2025 Kentucky Derby. The race was particularly exciting, with fan-favorites Journalism and Baeza finishing in second and third place, respectively. This triumph marks the inaugural win for jockey Junior Alvarado, who expressed his elation, stating the victory “means the world to me.” According to NBC, he shared, “This win is monumental for my career and my family,” highlighting the personal significance behind this competitive achievement.

“Having my family here makes this moment even more special. I truly believed I had a great chance to win,” Alvarado continued, his excitement palpable. “I’m pretty sure they’re over the moon right now,” he added, showcasing the joy that accompanies such a significant victory in his professional journey.

Financial Rewards for the 2025 Kentucky Derby Winner: Understanding the Prize Money

The total purse for the 2025 Kentucky Derby is an impressive $5 million, with the winner set to take home a substantial prize of $3.1 million. This prize money is a significant motivator for the competitors, as those finishing in second through fifth place also receive noteworthy sums. According to reports from USA Today, the financial rewards are distributed as follows:

• 2nd place: $1 million
• 3rd place: $500,000
• 4th place: $250,000
• 5th place: $150,000

Meet the Competitors: The 2025 Kentucky Derby Lineup Revealed

The 2025 Kentucky Derby featured an exciting lineup of talented horses, showcasing the best in thoroughbred racing. Here’s a rundown of the competitors who participated:

1. Citizen Bull

2. Neoequos

3. Final Gambit

4. American Promise

5. Admire Daytona

6. Luxor Café

7. Journalism

8. Burnham Square

9. Flying Mohawk

10. East Avenue

11. Publisher

12. Tiztastic

13. Render Judgment

14. Coal Battle

15. Sandman

16. Sovereignty

17. Chunk of Gold

18. Owen Almighty

19. Baeza

Reflecting on Previous Winners: Who Took the Crown in 2024?

Mystik Dan proudly claimed victory in the 2024 Kentucky Derby, showcasing the continuous legacy of excellence in this prestigious race.