The countdown to the 2026 Kentucky Derby is officially on, and the excitement is building as the "Run for the Roses" approaches on Saturday, May 2, at Churchill Downs. Since last September, the road to this iconic Triple Crown kickoff has been filled with thrilling races, but now all eyes are on the 20-horse field that was unveiled during the post draw on April 25. Whether you're a seasoned horse racing fan or a casual bettor, this year's Derby promises plenty of drama—and potentially big payouts.

The 2026 Kentucky Derby odds have Renegade leading the pack as the 4-1 favorite, with Further Ado and Commandment close behind at 6-1, and Chief Wallabee at 8-1. But don't let the odds fool you—this race is wide open. If you're looking for an edge, consider the exclusive TwinSpires offer code CBSSPORTS, which gives you up to $400 in bonus bets, double what's available to the general public. It's a great way to get in on the action.

For those serious about making smart bets, there's one name you need to know: Gene Menez. A former reporter and editor at Sports Illustrated, Menez spent nearly 14 years covering horse racing and other sports for the magazine. His track record speaks for itself. In 2010, he correctly predicted Super Saver to win the Kentucky Derby. In 2015, he nailed the superfecta (American Pharoah, Firing Line, Dortmund, and Frosted), which paid $1,268.20 on a $2 bet. Then, in 2017, he hit the Pick 4 for nearly $6,900 on a $1 wager. Most recently, in 2024, he called 18-1 longshot Mystik Dan as a live contender, and last year, he hammered the exacta and trifecta for a $1,045 payout. Simply put, following Menez's advice could put you way ahead.

So, what does Menez think about the 2026 field? One of his biggest surprises is that he's fading the favorite, Renegade. While Renegade impressed with a win in the Arkansas Derby on March 28 at Oaklawn Park—covering 1 1/8 miles in 1:49.7—and previously won the Sam F. Davis at Tampa Bay Downs, Menez sees vulnerabilities. He's identified several longshots and contenders that could shake up the race. For his full picks, including exacta, trifecta, and superfecta strategies, head over to SportsLine. And don't forget, new users on FanDuel Racing can get $25 in bonuses with just a $5 bet—perfect for putting Menez's insights to the test.

Whether you're betting for fun or aiming for a big score, the 2026 Kentucky Derby is shaping up to be a race to remember. Get your gear ready, place your bets, and enjoy the thrill of the Run for the Roses!