LOUISVILLE, KY. – Sovereignty emerged victorious in the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday at Churchill Downs Racetrack, captivating the 147,406 spectators braving cool, overcast conditions and a muddy track.
Jeff Roberson/AP via CNN Newsource
The 2025 edition of “The Run for the Roses,” the longest continuously held major sporting event in the United States, delivered its traditional spectacle and excitement.
Before the race, American gymnastics icon and 11-time Olympic medalist Simone Biles gave the prestigious “riders up” call, signaling for the jockeys to mount their horses in the paddock.
Moments later, the iconic sound of the bugler’s call to the post filled the air as the nineteen competing horses began their procession onto the famed Churchill Downs Racetrack. The University of Louisville marching band and choir provided a moving rendition of “My Old Kentucky Home” as the horses made their way to the starting gates.
Despite significant rain earlier in the day, the race proceeded under cool, overcast skies. When the starting gates sprang open, Citizen Bull and Neoequos surged to the front, setting the initial pace. However, the eventual leaders, including Sovereignty, found themselves navigating through traffic towards the back of the pack in the early stages.
As the horses raced down the backstretch, Citizen Bull and Neoequos were joined by American Promise and East Avenue at the front, creating a four-wide battle for the lead. The stage was set for a dramatic finish as the field continued its journey around the muddy Churchill Downs oval.
