What time is the Kentucky Derby 2021?

For those of you wondering what time the 2021 Kentucky Derby begins on Saturday, May 1, we have you covered.

Last year, the 146th edition of the Kentucky Derby took place in early September due to the coronavirus pandemic as the second leg of the Triple Crown. One year later, the Derby returns to its normal slate as the first leg of the Triple Crown on the first Saturday of May.

The 2021 Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday, May 1, to kick off the big stretch in horse racing. For those of you looking to watch the event are probably wondering what time they need to tune in to watch the race and see if their hand-picked horse wins, we have you covered.

When is the Kentucky Derby 2021?

The event will begin at 12:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network until 2:30 p.m. ET, where it will switch to NBC until 7:30 p.m. ET. As for the big race itself, that is slated to begin at 6:57 p.m. ET.

After the 2020 edition of the Kentucky Derby was held without fans in attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is expected to be approximately 50,000 spectators inside Churchill Downs this year with safety, mask-wearing and social distancing protocols . The venue can normally hold a maximum of over 150,000 people.

Of course, you are probably wondering who the betting favorite for the 147th Kentucky Derby is. Hours before the start of the race, the betting favorites is Essential Quality, who holds 2-1 odds via the Kentucky Derby official website.

Be sure to tune in just before the 7:00 p.m. ET hour to ensure you do not miss out on the big race!