News and Press Releases

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) announced today an exciting slate of partners and on-site brand experiences for the 151st Kentucky Derby® presented by Woodford Reserve, taking place on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Blending timeless and contemporary traditions, this year’s Derby celebrates modern hospitality and entertainment reflecting the race’s evolution from a two-minute race into a cultural moment that transcends sport.

Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI” or “the Company”) (Nasdaq: CHDN) announced today renovations of the existing Finish Line Suites and The Mansion at Churchill Downs Racetrack with expected completion in April 2026. After careful consideration, CDI has decided to pause the multi-year projects to develop The Skye, Conservatory and Infield areas. The decision to delay these construction projects is due to the increasing uncertainty surrounding construction costs related to tariff and trade disputes as well as current macro-economic conditions. In the coming months, CDI will assess the evolving economic landscape and evaluate any changes to the timing and sequencing of these multi-year projects.

Churchill Downs has announced everything guests need to know about each Kentucky Derby Week event. This year, Derby Week consists of seven exciting events: Dawn at the Downs; Opening Night powered by LG&E and KU; 502’sDay, Winsday presented by Resolute Racing; Thurby presented by Old Forester; and, of course, Oaks and Derby.

Churchill Downs Racetrack announced Wednesday, April 16 that GRAMMY® nominated recording artist Grace Potter will perform the national anthem at the 151st Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Prior to Potter’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”, one of the greatest athletes of all time, Simone Biles, will have the honor of serving as this year’s Riders Up announcer.

The 2nd annual Official Kentucky Derby Style Guide aspires to immerse you in an ethereal fashion narrative that intertwines reality and reverie as Derby dreams take flight against the backdrop of the illustrious Churchill Downs. The Kentucky Derby is about creating memories that last a lifetime, that resonate deeply and evoke a visceral reaction. The first act celebrates the spectacle of the Kentucky Derby through the fashionable lens of a distinguished guest.

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) has announced a partnership with chef, New York Times best-selling cookbook author and content creator Joshua Weissman to help fans create the ultimate at-home race day celebration for the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby. Drawing on his Southern roots and fun, approachable culinary style, Weissman curated an exciting race day menu of dishes that blend regional comfort food with bold flavors, perfect for celebrating ‘Kentucky Derby At-Home.’

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) today released the second annual Kentucky Derby Style Guide (“Style Guide”) ahead of the 151st running of The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports® on Saturday, May 3. Fashion Journalist and Today Show Style correspondent, Zanna Roberts Rassi returned as guest editor, leveraging her style instincts and on-the-ground observations from last year’s 150th Kentucky Derby to curate a variety of looks defining a new era of Derby fashion.

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) today announced a partnership renewal with Ford as the exclusive automotive partner of the Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve, reinforcing a longstanding relationship between two iconic American brands. Under the renewed agreement, Ford will be granted exclusivity in the automotive category and an expanded footprint with interactive vehicle displays to promote fan interaction and immersive brand experiences to supplement the excitement of Derby Week and beyond.

The Kentucky Derby was nominated for Sports Event of the Year for the 150th running by Sports Business Journal along with five other national elite sporting events. Additionally, Churchill Downs Racetrack was nominated for Sports Facility of the Year for the 18th annual Sports Business Awards, recognizing excellence over the past year.