Kentucky Oaks Races into Primetime for 2026
A Twilight Shift for Horse Racing’s Beloved Tradition
The Kentucky Oaks is about to get a whole lot more visible. In a move aimed at broadening its reach and attracting a wider audience, the prestigious race for 3-year-old fillies will shift to primetime television for the 152nd edition in 2026. The event, traditionally held the day before the Kentucky Derby, will now kick off at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and stream on Peacock, marking a significant change in its long-standing schedule.
- Primetime Debut: The Kentucky Oaks will be broadcast at 8 p.m. ET for the first time ever.
- Audience Growth: The shift is strategically designed to reach a larger and more diverse audience.
- Long-Term Partnership: The move underscores the ongoing and robust partnership between NBC Sports and Churchill Downs.
- Kentucky Derby Alignment: The Oaks’ new time aligns with the Kentucky Derby, which typically runs shortly after 7 p.m. ET.
- Record-Breaking Derby Viewership: This year's Kentucky Derby drew a record-breaking 17.7 million viewers, demonstrating the sport's potential for broader appeal.
A Strategic Play for Growth
The decision to move the Kentucky Oaks to primetime isn't just about changing the time of the race; it's a calculated move to elevate the sport of horse racing to a national stage. For years, the Oaks has maintained a pre-6 p.m. ET post time, limiting its exposure to a more niche audience. The 8 p.m. start time, coinciding with peak television viewership, significantly expands the potential audience and offers a chance to capture the attention of casual sports fans who might not regularly tune in.
Leveraging the NBC Partnership
The extended deal between NBC Sports and Churchill Downs, running through 2032, provides a stable platform for promoting the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. Having first aired on NBC in 2001, the network has become synonymous with the iconic races, and this latest change reinforces their commitment to showcasing the sport. The impressive viewership numbers for this year's Derby – averaging 17.7 million and peaking at 21.8 million – highlight the potential for continued growth and demonstrate the power of a primetime broadcast.
"By moving the Kentucky Oaks to primetime, we're giving one of horse racing's most treasured traditions the national stage it deserves," said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs.
Looking Ahead
The shift to primetime for the Kentucky Oaks signals a renewed focus on growing the sport of horse racing and attracting a wider audience. With the Kentucky Derby already proving its potential for massive viewership, the Oaks’ twilight debut in 2026 promises to be a pivotal moment, potentially ushering in a new era of visibility and excitement for one of America's most beloved traditions.