When a horse is scratched from the Kentucky Derby, it can occur for various reasons, primarily related to health concerns such as injury or illness. If a horse shows signs of exhaustion or fever, it is typically withdrawn to ensure its safety and the race’s integrity. After being scratched, the horse receives immediate veterinary care and may return to racing later in the season, depending on the severity of the issue.

Another reason for scratching is poor performance during final workouts. If a horse fails to meet expectations in training, trainers or officials may decide it’s not ready for the high stakes of the Derby. In such cases, the horse is returned to its home base for rest and gradual training before being considered for future races.

Behavioral issues can also lead to a horse being scratched, especially in the high-pressure environment of Derby week. If a horse becomes overly anxious or aggressive, it may be withdrawn for safety reasons. Additionally, teams may voluntarily scratch a horse for strategic reasons, such as unfavorable track conditions or poor post positions, allowing the horse to target more suitable races later on.