2025 Kentucky Derby Preview: Discover the Favorites, Top Contenders, and Dark Horse Long Shots!

The 2025 Kentucky Oaks is happening soon, and excitement is in the air. After a three-year absence from Churchill Downs, Bob Baffert makes his return. The legendary trainer was sidelined after Medina Spirit, his Kentucky Derby winner, failed a post-race test in 2021. Despite a scratched entry, he’s still a strong contender with one horse in the race.

Handicapping the Derby is unique. The horses face a 10-furlong distance and a crowded 20-horse field for the first time. Strategies can go out the window as soon as the race begins, and luck often plays a big role in who wins the coveted blanket of roses.

Let’s take a closer look at the field.

1. Citizen Bull

   • Trainer: Bob Baffert
   • Jockey: Martin Garcia
   • Odds: 20-1
     Citizen Bull excelled in earlier races, winning four out of five, but struggled in his last race. His chances hinge on getting a strong start from post position one.

2. Neoequos

   • Trainer: Saffie A. Joseph Jr.
   • Jockey: Flavien Prat
   • Odds: 30-1
     Still searching for a win in graded stakes, Neoequos may struggle to keep pace with the leaders.

3. Final Gambit

   • Trainer: Brad Cox
   • Jockey: Luan Machado
   • Odds: 30-1
     Though trained by a top operation, Final Gambit has never raced on dirt and seems out of place at the Derby.

4. American Promise

   • Trainer: D. Wayne Lukas
   • Jockey: Nik Juarez
   • Odds: 30-1
     Lukas, at 89, is a living legend in the sport, yet this horse hasn’t placed in graded stakes.

5. Admire Daytona

   • Trainer: Yukihiro Kato
   • Jockey: Christophe Lemaire
   • Odds: 30-1
     This Japanese horse made a name in Dubai, but traveling and racing in a large field could be challenging.

6. Luxor Cafe

   • Trainer: Noriyuki Hori
   • Jockey: João Moreira
   • Odds: 15-1
     Having won several qualifying races, Luxor Cafe comes with a strong pedigree, being sired by American Pharoah.
7. Journalism
   • Trainer: Michael McCarthy
   • Jockey: Umberto Rispoli
   • Odds: 3-1
     Journalism has made headlines with four consecutive wins, setting high expectations for this race.

The profiles of these horses tell stories of talent, training, and the unpredictable nature of horse racing. The Derby isn’t just about speed; it’s also about strategy and a bit of luck.

Recent statistics show that horses with a mid to late-race style have historically had success in large fields. As the race approaches, experts weigh in on how crucial the start will be for horses needing to lead from the front.

With Baffert’s return and a competitive field, the 2025 Kentucky Derby promises excitement. Fans are already buzzing on social media, sharing insights and making predictions. Amid the drama of the race, it’s important to keep an eye on not just the favorites, but also the underdogs who often capture the moment.

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