The 2025 Kentucky Derby is set to commence at 6:57 p.m. ET this Saturday at Churchill Downs. The winning horse will be awarded a beautiful blanket of red roses along with the Kentucky Derby Trophy. The owner will receive a gold trophy with the trainer, jockey, and breeder getting silver half-size replicas. The favorite this year is Journalism, reflecting odds of 3-1, although the recent trend shows that favorites have not won for the past six years.

Other Competitors

Among the leading contenders are:

• Sovereignty at 5-1
• Sandman at 6-1
• Rodriguez at 12-1
• Burnham Square at 12-1

Before placing your bets for the 2025 Kentucky Derby, explore the insights and predictions shared by SportsLine’s leading horse racing expert, Jody Demling, who has consistently excelled in Derby predictions. His expertise has allowed him to correctly identify the horses to back in previous years.

Notable Insights

Demling suggests a skeptical approach towards Sandman, who stands at third in odds despite a recent victory at the Arkansas Derby. Trainer Mark Casse believes Sandman’s best performances are yet to come at longer distances. Furthermore, while Sandman’s lineage includes Tapit, a Grade 1 thoroughbred, neither Casse nor jockey Jose Ortiz has captured the Derby in their combined 19 experiences.

Demling’s recommendations also include Sovereignty, a notable runner-up in the Florida Derby, who has shown impressive results with two wins and two second places in five starts. Under the guidance of the respected Bill Mott, Sovereignty might have a chance to shine.

Conclusion

Who will take the crown in the 2025 Kentucky Derby? Stay tuned for the latest updates and expert predictions as Jody Demling prepares to unveil his winning picks!