The 2025 Kentucky Derby: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Betting States and Top Apps
The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as the “Run for the Roses,” is one of the most anticipated horse racing events in the world. As the 2025 edition approaches, enthusiasts and bettors alike are eager to know where and how they can place their bets. This guide provides an in-depth look at the legal betting states, the best horse racing betting apps, and tips for a successful betting experience.
The Kentucky Derby: An Overview
The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses, held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The race is the first leg of the American Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. The 2025 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for the first Saturday in May, with the Kentucky Oaks, a race for three-year-old fillies, taking place the day before.
Legal Betting States for the 2025 Kentucky Derby
Legal sports betting, including horse racing, has seen significant growth in the United States over the past few years. As of 2025, bettors in the following states can legally place bets on the Kentucky Derby:
– Kentucky: As the home of Churchill Downs, Kentucky has a rich horse racing tradition. The state allows both online and in-person betting.
– Colorado: Colorado has embraced sports betting, and residents can place bets on the Kentucky Derby through licensed sportsbooks and apps.
– New York: New York offers a robust sports betting market, with numerous apps and sportsbooks available for Kentucky Derby betting.
– New Jersey: New Jersey was one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). Residents can bet on the Kentucky Derby through various platforms.
– Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania has a thriving sports betting industry, with numerous options for bettors.
– Illinois: Illinois legalized sports betting in 2019, and residents can place bets on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
– Indiana: Indiana offers a competitive sports betting market, with several apps and sportsbooks available.
– Iowa: Iowa legalized sports betting in 2019, and residents can bet on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
– Nevada: Nevada has a long history of sports betting and offers numerous options for Kentucky Derby bettors.
– West Virginia: West Virginia legalized sports betting in 2018 and offers a variety of betting platforms.
– Tennessee: Tennessee legalized sports betting in 2019, and residents can place bets on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
– Virginia: Virginia legalized sports betting in 2020, and residents can bet on the Kentucky Derby through various platforms.
– Arkansas: Arkansas legalized sports betting in 2018, and residents can place bets on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
– Rhode Island: Rhode Island offers sports betting through its two licensed sportsbooks.
– Oregon: Oregon legalized sports betting in 2019, and residents can bet on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
– Michigan: Michigan legalized sports betting in 2019, and residents can place bets on the Kentucky Derby through various platforms.
– Washington, D.C.: Washington, D.C., offers sports betting through its licensed sportsbooks.
– Maryland: Maryland legalized sports betting in 2021, and residents can bet on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
– Massachusetts: Massachusetts legalized sports betting in 2022, and residents can place bets on the Kentucky Derby through various platforms.
– Arizona: Arizona legalized sports betting in 2021, and residents can bet on the Kentucky Derby through licensed operators.
Top Horse Racing Betting Apps for the 2025 Kentucky Derby
With the legal landscape established, let’s delve into the top horse racing betting apps for the 2025 Kentucky Derby. These apps offer a combination of user-friendly interfaces, competitive odds, and attractive bonuses.
FanDuel Racing
FanDuel Racing is widely regarded as the best place to bet on the Kentucky Derby in 2025. The app offers a comprehensive betting experience, with a wide range of betting options, competitive odds, and an intuitive user interface. FanDuel also provides attractive bonuses and promotions, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bettors.
TwinSpires
Owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated, TwinSpires is another top contender in the horse racing betting market. The app offers a seamless user experience, with a focus on customer support and new customer offers. TwinSpires provides competitive odds and a wide range of betting options, making it a popular choice among horse racing enthusiasts.
1/ST BET
1/ST BET is a leading horse racing betting app that offers a comprehensive betting experience. The app provides competitive odds, a user-friendly interface, and a variety of betting options. 1/ST BET also offers attractive bonuses and promotions, making it an excellent choice for Kentucky Derby bettors.
BetOnline
BetOnline takes the top spot as the overall best Kentucky Derby betting site, thanks to its low-wagering welcome bonus and generous horse racing promotions. The platform offers a wide range of betting options, competitive odds, and an intuitive user interface, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bettors.
BetAmerica
BetAmerica is known for its beautifully designed horse racing betting app, which is dedicated solely to horse racing. The app offers a $50 bonus for first-time registrants and provides access to over 200 tracks and different odds. BetAmerica’s focus on horse racing makes it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Tips for Successful Kentucky Derby Betting
Betting on the Kentucky Derby can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to approach it with a strategic mindset. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your betting experience:
– Do Your Research: Study the horses, jockeys, and trainers participating in the race. Look for patterns and trends that may indicate a horse’s potential to win.
– Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on bets and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses or betting more than you can afford.
– Diversify Your Bets: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Consider placing bets on multiple horses or different types of bets, such as win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, or superfecta.
– Take Advantage of Bonuses: Many betting apps offer bonuses and promotions, especially around major events like the Kentucky Derby. Take advantage of these offers to maximize your betting experience.
– Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news and developments leading up to the race. Injuries, changes in training, or other factors can impact a horse’s performance.
Conclusion: Embrace the Thrill of the Kentucky Derby
The 2025 Kentucky Derby promises to be an exhilarating event, filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing enthusiast or a casual bettor, the Kentucky Derby offers a unique opportunity to test your skills and potentially win big. By choosing the right betting app, doing your research, and following these tips, you can enhance your betting experience and make the most of this iconic event. So, get ready to place your bets and enjoy the thrill of the Kentucky Derby!
