The countdown is on to the big day on Epsom Downs and the latest running of the most famous Classic race of them all, the Derby. Which horse, trainer and jockey will add their name to the illustrious roll of honour for this legendary race, with a history that dates back to 1780? We’ve picked the top 16 Epsom Derby runners for special attention, with a guide to their chances in this great race.
The 2021 Epsom Derby promises to be, as it has so often been in the past, a wide-open affair. This is a race for three-year-olds – horses with more future than past – so picking the one who steps up on the big day is never simple. The last eight winners have been ridden by eight different jockeys and while Aidan O’Brien has trained three of the last five winners, none of them went off as favourite. Let’s take an early look at the Epsom Derby runners and odds – the favourites, contenders and longshots.
With a maximum field of 20 horses, betting on the Epsom Derby can be overwhelming. But we've got you covered. We've categorised the top horses in the betting into favorites, contenders, long shots, and those who need a miracle. We've also added their odds to win the Epsom Derby, their recent form, and the analysis you need to make smarter Epsom Derby bets.
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What time is the Epsom Derby on Saturday?
The Epsom Derby runners and jockeys get under way at 4.30pm on Saturday June 5th. A crowd of 4,000 will be in attendance at the racecourse to cheer the runners home in the great race, which was run behind closed doors in 2020.
What time does the Epsom Derby finish?
The Epsom Derby runners compete over a mile and a half of Epsom’s unique switchback track. Horses must travel both uphill and downhill during the race and there is a severe camber on the finishing straight. The race is usually completed in just over two-and-a-half minutes, so it should be over by 4.35pm if it starts on time.
Who will win the Epsom Derby?
Bolshoi Ballet is a worthy favourite and it would be no surprise to see him give Aidan O’Brien his ninth winner of the race. However, there are several promising contenders, and others at long odds who could spring a surprise. The Epsom Derby has thrown up some shock winners in recent years and it is a brave person who says with certainty that won’t happen this year.
Has a filly ever won the Epsom Derby?
Yes, this has happened six times since the race was first run in 1780. However, it has not happened since Fifinella won in 1916. Fillies very rarely run in the Epsom Derby in the modern era, although Cape Verdi went off favourite in 1998 – she finished ninth.
