How to Watch the 2022 Kentucky Derby

How to Watch the 2022 Kentucky Derby

Being drawn on Monday of this week, earlier than most years, the 20-horse field will go off at the legendary Churchill Downs in front of 150,000+ fans. Following last year’s event with fewer than normal fans due to the pandemic, the roar of the crowd will be a welcomed sight in this season’s festivities. 

The first leg of the Triple Crown is teeing up to be an interesting one, as this year’s field has no clear-cut dominant favorite ahead of post time. Weather is also likely to be a factor, with rain in the forecast for much of the MId-Atlantic throughout the rest of the week and into the weekend. 

This year seemingly more than ever, there is no shortage of options on how to view the action both. With coverage going throughout the day starting at 12:00 PM ET, as always, there will be no shortage of commentary leading up to the 6:57 PM EST post time.

Let’s take a look at a few different options both online and via cable services.

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How to Watch the 2022 Kentucky Derby

How to Watch the Kentucky Derby on TV

For those eager to get in on the action, USA Network will have coverage starting on Friday from 1 PM to 6 PM EST presenting live from Churchill downs with pre-game analysis and coverage of the Longines Kentucky Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. This coverage will also include a preview for the following day’s Derby.

As for race day itself (Saturday), the coverage again begins on USA Network, this time at 12:00 PM EST, before switching over to NBC from 2:30 to 7:30 EST. This coverage will include both continued preview and analysis and the Derby’s undercard.

For the sixth straight year, Mike Tirico will lead the coverage for NBC Sports, with analysts Randy Moss and Jerry Bailey by his side, as well as handicapper Eddie Olczyk.

How to Stream the Kentucky Derby

For those who have cut the cord, there are plenty of options to choose from this year. Peacock will stream the day’s coverage and events for the first time in its service history. For those without Peacock, the Derby’s coverage can also be found on NBCSports.com, as well as the NBC Sports app on Roku, Xbox, and other streaming devices. 

While Peacock Premium will provide the most extensive coverage, those with Sling TV Blue, Youtube TV, Hulu with Live TV, and DirecTV Stream, all of which carry NBC and USA Network, will also be able to tune into the coverage. 

Kentuck Derby Bonus Coverage

Those looking for extra Derby coverage won’t be disappointed this year, as the NYRA-produced “America’s Day at the Races” program will show a special Kentucky Derby preview Friday evening. This special can be found on FS2 and FS1, with air times being based on region. Check your local schedule for air times.