NBC Extends Kentucky Derby Broadcast Partnership Through 2032

The Peacock Network will continue its broadcast partnership with the Kentucky Derby until 2032, extending an agreement that commenced in 2001. The network’s coverage, encompassing the Kentucky Oaks and preliminary races for both events, will be distributed across NBC, Peacock, USA Network, and other NBC Universal channels.

This agreement coincides with Churchill Downs’ preparations for the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby in 2024. Last year’s race, the most viewed since 1989, attracted 16.7 million spectators. This surge in viewership aligned with the authorization of sports wagering in Kentucky in August 2022, with Churchill Downs reporting over $2 billion in bets placed on the race.

“For the past 23 years, NBC has magnificently portrayed the most thrilling 120 seconds in sports, along with the spectacle surrounding it,” remarked Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen.

“NBC Sports is privileged to narrate the tales behind the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May, and we are delighted to prolong this tradition with Churchill Downs,” stated NBC Sports president Rick Cordillo. “We anticipate comprehensive coverage and promotion of both the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby across all NBCUniversal platforms.”

A racehorse with slim odds, Mystik Dan, shocked onlookers when a massive seven million dollar wager was placed on him at an 18 to 1 payout.

This unexpected victory contributed to a profitable period for Churchill Downs Racetrack, which announced $5.909 billion in earnings for the initial quarter of 2024.