The Kentucky Derby isn't just about the glory of crossing the finish line first—it's also one of the most lucrative events in horse racing. For the 2026 running at Churchill Downs, the stakes have never been higher.

With a record-setting $5 million purse—the second-largest in horse racing behind only the Breeders' Cup Classic—this year's Derby offers life-changing money for the winning team. The champion horse's owner will take home a cool $3.1 million, but that's just the beginning. That prize is typically split 80-10-10 among the owner, trainer, and jockey, meaning the jockey alone could pocket $310,000 (before their agent and valet take their shares).

Even if your horse doesn't win, there's still plenty to race for. Second place earns $1 million, third place gets $500,000, fourth place takes $250,000, and fifth place walks away with $100,000. For the 152nd running of this iconic event, the pressure is on for owners, trainers, and jockeys alike—both for the prestige and the paycheck.