The Kentucky Derby is more than just a run for the roses—it's a race for serious money, too. For the third consecutive year, the 2026 Derby will feature a $5 million purse, with the winning horse and its team taking home a hefty $3.1 million slice.
Here's how the top-five finishers will cash in:
Of that $3.1 million winner's share, 80% goes directly to the horse's owner, while the trainer earns 10% and the jockey gets the remaining 10%. That means the winning jockey would pocket $310,000—but they'll split that with their valet and agent, as is tradition.
So, whether you're dreaming of owning a champion or just betting on one, the Kentucky Derby remains one of the most lucrative—and thrilling—events in sports.
