The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is one of the most watched and bet-on horse races in the world. The total amount of money bet on the Derby varies from year to year, influenced by factors such as the quality of the field, the presence of highly regarded horses, and the overall economic climate.
As of my last update, the total betting handle for the Kentucky Derby typically ranges from approximately $150 million to over $200 million. For instance, in 2021, the total betting handle for the Kentucky Derby was reported to be around $223 million across all betting channels, including on-track, off-track, and online wagering.
It’s important to note that these figures are subject to change, and for the most current and specific information, you would need to check the latest reports from the Kentucky Derby or the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission following the event.