NBC Sports will present a historic prime time broadcast of the Kentucky Oaks on May 1, 2026, at Churchill Downs. This marks the first time the event will air in prime time, starting at 8 p.m. ET. The broadcast is part of NBC Sports’ extensive coverage of Derby Week.
Coverage details:
- NBC Sports will provide 12.5 hours of coverage from Churchill Downs.
- The Kentucky Oaks features a purse of $1,500,000.
- The Kentucky Derby follows on May 2 with a purse of $3,000,000.
- Over two days, NBC Sports will present 16 live races from Churchill Downs.
- The first race on Derby Day is scheduled for 12:30 PM ET.
This landmark broadcast is expected to attract a large audience. Historically, the best bets at Churchill Downs have finished in the money 68% of the time. The Kentucky Oaks is recognized as a Grade I race and is one of the highlights of horse racing.
Officials have not disclosed what led to this decision by NBC Sports. However, it underscores the growing popularity and viewership of horse racing events like the Kentucky Derby and Oaks.
As excitement builds for these prestigious races, fans are eager to see how this new prime time format will impact viewership and engagement. The next major event following this announcement will be the Kentucky Derby on May 2.
