Sovereignty wins muddy 151st Kentucky Derby as rain soaks Churchill Downs

LOUISVILLE, KY (352today.com) – Rain soaked Churchill Downs on Saturday, turning the track sloppy for the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby.

Despite wet conditions and fans donning ponchos to protect their Derby attire, the race went on as scheduled.

Sovereignty, left, ridden by Junior Alvarado, crosses the finish line to win the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby horse race at Churchill Downs Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Louisville, Ky. Courtesy: Abbie Parr/The Associated Press

Sovereignty emerged victorious, crossing the finish line ahead of a competitive field. Journalism, the 4-1 wagering favorite in the hours before post time, did not finish in the top spot.

Photos provided by The Associated Press

This marks the first Derby held on a sloppy track since 2019, when Country House won following a disqualification.