Best Kentucky Derby Betting Sites 2025
Explore the best Kentucky Derby betting sites, expertly reviewed and tested by our in-house bettors to help you find your next favorite sportsbook.
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Last Updated: 13 February, 2025
The best Kentucky Derby betting sites are DraftKings, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetMGM. This is based upon their key sports betting features like payment method, app usability, promos and bonuses, and customer service support, which makes them the best online sportsbooks for the Kentucky Derby.
Top Kentucky Derby sportsbooks compared 2025
Best Kentucky Derby betting sites reviewed
Here are the top six Derby betting sites reviewed by Sporting Post's in-house gambling team for your benefit...
1. DraftKings - Best Kentucky Derby betting site for beginners
DraftKings overview
DraftKings betting site video review
What Kentucky Derby betting experience does DraftKings offer players?
DraftKings stands out as an excellent choice for beginners entering the world of horse racing betting.
Its intuitive interface and seamless navigation make it easy for new users to place wagers confidently on high-profile events like the Kentucky Derby.
Operating legally in 25 U.S. states, DraftKings ensures bettors enjoy a secure and regulated environment.
In 2024, the platform reported a 20% increase in horse racing bettors, highlighting its growing popularity in this niche.
Additionally, its enticing promotions, such as deposit-matching up to $1,000, provide newcomers with a solid start.
With these features, DraftKings is a reliable and accessible platform for anyone looking to explore horse racing betting.
To learn more, read our expert review of DraftKings.
DraftKings is an excellent platform for horse racing betting, offering instant payouts that are much faster than most competitors. The seamless integration with bank accounts makes collecting winnings from races like the Kentucky Derby hassle-free. DraftKings provides fast withdrawals and extensive horse racing markets, including international events. Their odds boosts and loyalty rewards offer exceptional value for frequent bettors, particularly during high-stakes events. While the speed of applying promotions could improve, DraftKings’ overall reliability and strong customer service make it a top choice for serious bettors looking to wager on iconic horse racing events.Bradley Gibbs
Pros and cons of Kentucky Derby betting at DraftKings
We consistently put ourselves in the user's shoes and test every sportsbook ourselves, so here are the pros and cons we experienced when using DraftKings sports betting site...
Pros
- ✅ Wide variety of horse racing betting markets available.
- ✅ Intuitive interface simplifies betting for horse racing beginners.
Cons
- ❌ Limited live streaming for horse racing events.
- ❌ Customer service lacks quick responses for race-day queries.
2. Caesars Sportsbook - Best Kentucky Derby sports betting site for sports selection
Caesars Sportsbook overview
Caesars Sportsbook video review
What Kentucky Derby betting experience does Caesars Sportsbook offer players?
Caesars Sportsbook offers an unparalleled range of betting options and features tailored to horse racing enthusiasts.
Beyond its 25+ sports markets, the platform includes rare and engaging betting options like microbetting, allowing users to wager on specific intervals within a race.
Caesars also provides same-game parlays for horse racing, enhancing its appeal to bettors seeking more dynamic options.
Live streaming of prestigious events like the Triple Crown series adds to the excitement, ensuring fans can follow every moment of the action.
These features, coupled with a user-friendly interface, make Caesars Sportsbook a top choice for those passionate about horse racing.
Learn more with our detailed Caesars Sportsbook review.
Caesars Sportsbook’s sign-up bonus, which immediately matches deposits, provides a strong incentive for horse racing bettors. Its promotions and odds boosts are particularly attractive for events like the Breeders’ Cup, adding substantial value for bettors focused on maximizing returns. The platform stands out for its variety of betting options tailored to horse racing, including microbetting features. However, the app’s interface and functionality can be frustrating, with issues like settled bets lingering in the active section, which clutters the experience during busy race days. Despite these drawbacks, Caesars remains a solid choice for horse racing enthusiasts.Josh Miller
Pros and cons of Kentucky Derby betting at Caesars Sportsbook
To offer the best recommendations, we put ourselves in the user's position by thoroughly testing each top sports betting site.
Here are the pros and cons of using Caesars Sportsbook...
Pros
- ✅ Offers microbetting on horse racing intervals and outcomes.
- ✅ Live streams Triple Crown races for unparalleled engagement.
Cons
- ❌ Odds are less competitive for smaller horse racing events.
- ❌ Limited international race coverage outside of major events.
3. BetMGM - Best Kentucky Derby sportsbook for mobile betting
BetMGM overview
BetMGM betting site video review
What Kentucky Derby betting experience does BetMGM offer players?
BetMGM delivers a superior mobile betting experience tailored specifically for horse racing enthusiasts.
Its app, available on both iOS and Android, offers seamless access to live streams of major races, allowing users to watch and bet simultaneously.
Weekly bonus bets, often up to $50, keep bettors engaged, while detailed race analytics and horse statistics enhance informed wagering.
In 2024, BetMGM processed over $500 million in horse racing bets, reflecting its trusted reputation.
Although withdrawal speeds could improve, BetMGM remains a leader in mobile horse racing betting, offering convenience and comprehensive features for fans of the sport.
To learn more, read our detailed expert review of BetMGM.
BetMGM’s generous deposit bonus, matching deposits up to $500, offers great value for horse racing bettors. The platform shines with its live-streaming feature, allowing users to watch races like the Kentucky Derby in real time while placing bets. BetMGM also offers daily odds boosts, adding significant value for bettors following both domestic and international races. The app is user-friendly and provides quick deposits and withdrawals, ensuring a smooth betting experience. However, occasional delays in processing race winnings can be a drawback, especially during major events.Bradley Gibbs
Pros and cons of Kentucky Derby betting at BetMGM
We test every sports betting site ourselves, so we can understand the user better.
When it comes to BetMGM, here are the advantages and disadvantages of using the site...
Pros
- ✅ Seamless mobile app supports real-time horse race betting.
- ✅ Weekly horse racing bonus bets keep users consistently engaged.
Cons
- ❌ Withdrawals can take over two days to process.
- ❌ Limited stats and analytics for lesser-known horse races.
4. bet365 - Best sports betting site for Derby market selection
bet365 overview
bet365 betting site video review
What Kentucky Derby betting experience does bet365 offer players?
bet365 sets itself apart with an extensive selection of horse racing markets, covering events from over 50 countries.
Bettors can find odds on everything from local maiden races to global Group 1 events, ensuring diverse wagering opportunities.
In 2024 alone, bet365 recorded $1.2 billion in horse racing turnover, demonstrating its prominence in the market.
The platform also offers boosted odds on marquee events such as the Kentucky Derby, alongside in-play betting options that keep the excitement alive throughout the race.
With a user-friendly interface and a reliable mobile app, bet365 is a top choice for bettors seeking variety and value in horse racing.
Read our bet365 review to learn more about the betting site.
bet365 is a standout platform during horse racing season, offering an early payout feature that allows bettors to secure winnings before races are officially complete. Its market coverage spans over 50 countries, providing options for both local and international horse racing fans. The platform allows for customizable bets like exactas and trifectas, adding depth to the betting experience. While the user interface could use refinement, bet365 excels in critical areas like payment speed, market depth, and promotional value. Instant withdrawals and no-strings-attached bonus bets make bet365 a top choice for horse racing bettors seeking flexibility and reliability.Josh Miller
Pros and cons of Kentucky Derby betting at bet365
We always see through the eyes of the user and meticulously test sports betting sites ourselves.
Based on our experience with bet365, these are the pros and cons we encountered...
Pros
- ✅ Covers horse races from over 50 countries.
- ✅ Boosted odds offered for marquee horse racing events.
Cons
- ❌ Occasional issues with payouts on horse racing winnings.
- ❌ Limited promotional offers specific to horse racing bettors.
5. BetRivers - Best Kentucky Derby betting site for live betting
BetRivers overview
BetRivers betting site video review
What Kentucky Derby betting experience does BetRivers offer players?
BetRivers is a standout platform for live horse racing betting, providing a highly interactive experience for bettors.
Its live streaming capabilities include premier events like the Breeders’ Cup, allowing users to watch and bet in real-time.
Enhanced by boosted odds during peak races and fast withdrawal times—often within 12 hours—BetRivers ensures a smooth and dynamic betting experience.
The platform’s intuitive interface allows for quick navigation across multiple markets, catering to both novice and experienced bettors.
While 24/7 customer support is lacking, the overall functionality and focus on live betting make BetRivers a preferred choice for horse racing enthusiasts.
To learn more, read our extensive BetRivers review.
BetRivers offers competitive horse racing sign-up bonuses and seamless live betting features. Winnings from races are often processed by the next morning, providing bettors with quick access to their funds. The platform’s live streaming of major horse racing events, like the Breeders’ Cup, ensures an immersive experience. BetRivers may not have the most modern interface, but its fast payouts and strong promotions make it an excellent choice for seasoned bettors. The outdated design can feel cumbersome during high-profile race days, but the platform’s efficiency and responsive customer service more than compensate for this limitation.Bradley Gibbs
Pros and cons of Kentucky Derby betting at BetRivers
We always think of the user and test sports betting sites thoroughly ourselves.
Based on our experience with BetRivers, these are the benefits and drawbacks we encountered...
Pros
- ✅ Fast withdrawals ensure race winnings are quickly accessible.
- ✅ Live streaming covers major horse racing events like Breeders’ Cup.
Cons
- ❌ No 24/7 support for urgent race-day issues.
- ❌ Lacks exotic bet variety compared to competitors.
6. FanDuel - Best for Kentucky Derby bonuses and promos
FanDuel overview
FanDuel betting site video review
What Kentucky Derby betting experience does FanDuel offer players?
FanDuel shines as one of the most engaging platforms for horse racing bettors, combining generous promotions with a user-centric design.
New users can take advantage of the "No Sweat First Bet" offer, which provides up to $500 in bonus bets for their initial wager.
The platform’s extensive horse racing coverage includes exclusive live-streaming access to marquee events like the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.
Features such as same-game parlays, competitive odds, and state-specific promotions further enhance the betting experience.
Despite limited cash-out options, FanDuel’s reputation for rapid payouts and a highly rated app solidify its position as a go-to platform for horse racing betting.
To learn more, read our extensive FanDuel review.
FanDuel delivers impressive odds for horse racing, offering significantly higher payouts compared to many competitors during marquee events like the Kentucky Derby. Its early cash-out feature and flexible betting options, including exotic wagers like trifectas, make it a valuable tool for strategic horse racing bettors. FanDuel’s odds boosts and live-streaming capabilities enhance the experience for both casual and experienced bettors. While the platform could improve its loyalty promotions for regular horse racing users, its fast withdrawals and consistent market fairness position it as a leading platform for horse racing enthusiasts.Josh Miller
Pros and cons of Kentucky Derby betting at FanDuel
We prioritize the user by testing each leading sports betting site.
From a customer-first point of view, these are the advantages and disadvantages of FanDuel...
Pros
- ✅ State-specific promotions enhance betting opportunities on local horse races.
- ✅ Exclusive live streaming access to Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.
Cons
- ❌ No shared wallet with fantasy sports impacts betting convenience.
- ❌ Limited betting options for international horse racing events.
How we rate & rank Kentucky Derby online betting sites
Our goal is to provide objective, unbiased reviews of betting sites for the Kentucky Derby, making it easy to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
We use a consistent set of nine criteria to evaluate each site, ensuring that you can compare them effectively and easily:
Safety: We verify if the site is licensed in the US and review its operating history, ensuring your money and data are secure.
Mobile betting app: We evaluate the sportsbook's layout, functionality, and ease of placing bets, ensuring a smooth mobile betting experience.
Web betting site: We test the betting site’s features, including customization options and the bet placement process, looking for ease of use and accessibility.
Betting markets: We examine the variety of sports and betting options available, comparing the breadth and quality of markets across different sports betting sites.
Pre-match and in-play betting: We assess both pre-match and live betting features, focusing on user-friendliness, versatility, and market variety.
Bonuses & promotions: We review the fairness and value of sign-up bonuses, free bets, and ongoing promotions, ensuring transparent terms and competitive offers.
Deposits & withdrawals: We evaluate payment options, processing times, fees, and the overall ease of transactions for deposits and withdrawals.
Customer support: We test the responsiveness and effectiveness of support channels like live chat, email, and phone to resolve any issues quickly.
Security: We ensure online sportsbooks use robust security measures, such as SSL encryption, to protect your personal and financial information.
We download each sports betting site and interact with the platform ourselves, using our own money to test the quality.
If we do not recommend the sportsbook to our friends and family, we will not recommend it to you!
This streamlined approach ensures you can make informed decisions based on what matters most in your online betting experience.
You can view our dedicated page for more information on how we test and review betting sites.
Additionally, you can view all of our betting site reviews.
Kentucky Derby odds and picks
Betting on the Kentucky Derby is an exhilarating experience, but understanding the odds and making informed picks can significantly enhance your chances of success.
With 20 of the world’s best thoroughbreds competing in "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," choosing the right horse involves more than just luck.
Below, we’ve broken down how to interpret Derby odds, select winning bets, and identify this year’s top contenders to help you make smarter wagers.
Understanding Kentucky Derby odds
Kentucky Derby odds are typically presented in fractional format (e.g., 5/1) but can also be shown in decimal or American formats.
Fractional odds indicate potential profit relative to your stake.
For example, at 5/1 odds, a $100 bet would return $500 in profit plus your initial stake.
Key insights:
Favorites: Favorites have won 10 of the last 20 Kentucky Derby races, making them a reliable but lower-payout choice.
Longshots: Horses with odds of 20/1 or greater have also seen surprising wins, such as Rich Strike in 2022 (80/1).
For the latest odds, visit reliable sportsbooks like FanDuel Racing, bet365, or TwinSpires, which update odds live as post positions and contenders are finalized.
Making smart picks
Research horses: Analyze key stats like speed figures, recent race performance, and pedigree. Horses that have consistently performed well in prep races, like the Florida Derby or Arkansas Derby, often carry strong momentum.
Example: A 2023 Kentucky Derby study found that 75% of winners had at least one Grade 1 victory.
Track Conditions: Consider how horses perform on dirt tracks, as Churchill Downs’ track conditions can vary based on weather. Horses adept at running on wet tracks often excel in rain-affected races.
Trainer and Jockey Stats: Trainers like Bob Baffert and jockeys like John Velazquez have a strong track record at the Derby. Review their win percentages and previous Derby performances.
Betting Strategy: Combine favorites and longshots for better potential payouts. For instance:
Exacta Bet: Predict the top two finishers in exact order.
How do I choose a Kentucky Derby betting site for me?
Choosing the right Kentucky Derby betting site involves evaluating several key factors that ensure a seamless, secure, and enjoyable wagering experience. Below is a comprehensive guide with added insights, statistics, and sources to help you make an informed decision:
Legitimacy and licensing
Start by verifying that the platform is licensed and regulated by the relevant authorities, such as state gaming commissions in the U.S. Licensed operators adhere to strict guidelines, ensuring legal and secure betting. As of 2024, 38 states (+ DC) allow some form of online or retail horse race betting, making it essential to confirm that the site is approved in your state.
User experience
Opt for a platform with a smooth, user-friendly interface. According to a survey by Statista, 70% of online bettors prioritize ease of navigation when choosing a sportsbook. Features like simple bet placement, clear odds displays, and accessible account settings are crucial for both beginners and experienced bettors.
Betting markets
A wide range of betting markets is essential for Kentucky Derby betting. Look for platforms that offer standard wagers (win, place, show) and exotic bets such as trifectas, exactas, and superfectas. Some top-rated platforms also include future wagers and pari-mutuel betting options. For example, in 2023, exotic bets accounted for 25% of the $188.7 million wagered on Derby Day.
Bonuses and promotions
Bonuses and promotions can significantly enhance your betting value. Seek platforms offering Derby-specific promotions, such as FanDuel’s "$500 No Sweat First Bet" or TwinSpires' "Risk-Free $25 Win Bet". These bonuses not only provide added value but also cushion the impact of initial losses for new bettors.
Deposit and withdrawal options
A variety of secure payment options ensures hassle-free transactions. Leading platforms support credit/debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill, and direct bank transfers. Fast payouts are especially critical; for instance, bet365 and BetMGM are known for processing withdrawals within 24-48 hours.
Customer support
Responsive customer support is vital for resolving race-day issues. Look for platforms offering 24/7 service via live chat, email, or phone. According to Gambling Insider, sportsbooks with reliable customer support see a 30% higher retention rate among users.
Mobile accessibility
In 2024, 65% of online wagers were placed via mobile devices. Ensure the platform has a reliable mobile app or a mobile-optimized website, enabling you to place bets conveniently from anywhere, especially on race day.
Reputation and reviews
Research user feedback and expert reviews to gauge the platform’s reliability. Websites like ours offer in-depth evaluations of sportsbooks, including user testimonials on payout speed, market availability, and fairness.
Security measures
Top-tier platforms employ advanced encryption and data protection technologies to safeguard user information. Look for certifications like SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and partnerships with trusted payment processors. In 2023, cyber breaches affected 8% of unregulated betting sites, emphasizing the importance of choosing a secure, licensed operator.
Odds and payouts
Comparing odds across platforms can significantly impact your payouts. A difference as small as 0.5 in odds can affect profits on larger bets. For example, if one platform offers 9/2 odds while another provides 5/1, a $100 bet could yield $50 more with the latter.
How to gamble responsibly on Kentucky Derby sportsbooks
Before we end this article, we need to caution you to always bet responsibly.
To ensure you’re being cautious, betting sites implement various responsible gambling practices that will help you keep your betting habits in check.
Limits: Sportsbooks online allow you to set betting limits, i.e. limit how much you can bet in a day, a week, or a month.
Cashouts: You can withdraw your winnings quite easily from any betting site. This prevents you from spending all of your winnings. There’s also the option for early cashout, so you can still get paid if the bet is starting to go sideways.
Help & resources: Online betting sites provide access to resources for problem gamblers and point them to organizations that can help with gambling addiction.
To help with gambling, we created a 'How To Bet On Sports' guide, that helps new sports bettors understand the industry better, to play safer and more securely.
Responsible gambling organizations and charities in the US
Frequently asked questions
Editorial policy
Our editorial policy ensures thoroughly researched, accurate, and unbiased content through strict sourcing standards and diligent review by top betting experts and seasoned editors.
This process maintains the integrity, relevance, and value of our content for our readers.
References
To test betting sites accurately, we dive into analytical research of the gambling industry, to understand what features are best for you.
Below are the references we use when making these decisions:
https://wsb.wharton.upenn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Beggy_2023__Betting_Kelly.pdf
https://sc.edu/uofsc/posts/2024/01/stephen-shapiro-sports-gambling.php
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/downloads/2j62s5932
Contributors
Bradley Gibbs
Author
With over 12 years of experience, Bradley Gibbs is a seasoned sports betting writer and analyst specializing in uncovering value bets across football, horse racing, tennis, and golf. His extensive coverage of these sports has been featured on numerous websites and in The Racing & Football Outlook, a renowned UK betting publication. Bradley's expertise lies in identifying betting edges and delivering insightful, data-driven content for informed wagering.
Josh Miller
Editor
Josh Miller, Sporting Post’s Sports & Casino Editor, brings over five years of experience in feature writing, blogging, and SEO. With a strong background in football coverage and sports betting, his work has been featured in VAVEL. Josh also writes extensively about online casinos, providing expert insights into games, bonuses, and gambling trends. His engaging and informative content makes him a reliable resource for Sporting Post readers.