With the 2026 Kentucky Derby just 164 days away, early-season action on the Road to the Kentucky Derby is intensifying as owners, trainers, and bettors analyze workouts and race results to set initial odds. The upcoming Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes at Churchill Downs, featuring 27 nominees including standout Further Ado—who recently won impressively by 20 lengths—is a key early points race that could shape the Derby leaderboard. Additionally, promising newcomers like Smoovin Saturday, a son of 2012 Derby winner I’ll Have Another, are generating buzz for potential early betting value.
Recent workouts have influenced the Kentucky Derby odds, with horses like It’s Our Time climbing the power rankings after strong drills. The current leaderboard is led by Ted Noffey with 40 points, followed by Mr. A. P. and Intrepido. Meanwhile, the cancellation of the Bob Hope Stakes at Del Mar disrupts West Coast prep plans, forcing trainers to seek alternative routes to earn Derby qualifying points. This evolving landscape keeps bettors and connections closely monitoring performances as the Derby approaches.
