Kentucky Derby 2026: Top Contenders and Key Prep Races

Nearly:: Trained by Todd Pletcher, Nearly is a strong contender after winning the Holy Bull Stakes. He's likely to race in the Florida Derby on March 28.

Paladin:: Unbeaten in three starts, Paladin is a dual graded stakes winner. He's heading to the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland on April 4.

Commandment:: Trained by Brad Cox, Commandment won the Fountain of Youth Stakes and is also expected to run in the Florida Derby.

Incredibolt:: Secured a spot in the Kentucky Derby after winning the Virginia Derby, earning 50 qualifying points.

Key Prep Races:: The Jeff Ruby Steaks at Turfway Park and the Louisiana Derby at Fair Grounds are crucial races for horses aiming to qualify for the Kentucky Derby. These races and others in the coming weeks offer significant qualifying points.

Nearly: This colt's early success makes him a horse to watch, particularly in the Florida Derby.

Paladin: With three wins, Paladin is a consistent performer with a strong pedigree.

Commandment: Cox's previous Derby success adds weight to Commandment's chances.

Chief Wallabee: After a strong showing in the Fountain of Youth, this colt is poised for improvement.

Renegade: Another Pletcher trainee, Renegade's victory in the Sam F. Davis Stakes demonstrates his potential.

Class President: A brave win in the Rebel Stakes puts him on the radar.

Silent Tactic: Consistency is key for this horse, who is set to compete in major preps at Oaklawn Park.

Further Ado: A Blue Grass Stakes contender with a previous win at Churchill Downs.

A:: The Kentucky Derby 2026 will be held on May 2 at Churchill Downs.

A:: The Jeff Ruby Steaks, Louisiana Derby, and Florida Derby are key prep races offering significant qualifying points.