The 2026 Tampa Bay Derby, a Grade-3 race with a $400,000 purse held at Tampa Bay Downs, serves as a key Kentucky Derby qualifier with 50 points awarded to the winner. Scheduled for early March, it attracts top Derby hopefuls who often run one more prep race before the Kentucky Derby in May. The current favorite is Further Ado at 9-5 odds, with other contenders including Canaletto, Powershift, and The Puma.

Horse racing expert Gene Menez, known for his accurate picks in major races, surprisingly advises against betting on favorite Further Ado due to inconsistent performances outside his maiden win. Instead, Menez highlights other horses with better prospects, including a top pick expected to secure a favorable position during the race and a promising longshot. His detailed predictions and best bets are available on SportsLine, where bettors can also find wagering options through TwinSpires.