Get ready for the bugle call because the 2025 Kentucky Derby is just around the corner.
If you’re a bettor in Virginia, you might be curious about the options for betting on the Derby and watching it live. Don’t worry, we have all the essential information and more to assist you.
Take a glance at the essential information about betting on the Kentucky Derby, scheduled for May 6th.
Where to bet on the Kentucky Derby online
In Virginia, individuals who are 18 years or older can engage in online horse race betting. The state offers two horse race betting apps, namely DK Horse and TVG, both of which provide excellent betting opportunities for the Derby and various other horse races.
About DK Horse
DK Horse is an innovative horse race betting application designed specifically for bettors in Virginia. This app is a collaborative effort between DraftKings and Churchill Downs, Inc., the renowned host of the prestigious Kentucky Derby held in Louisville, Kentucky.
Please be aware that DK Horse is a distinct application from DraftKings Sportsbook. To access it, you must download it separately and establish a fresh account. This arrangement has its pros and cons. While having a separate app may be slightly inconvenient, it also ensures that DK Horse is solely focused on horse race betting, providing an uncluttered experience without the distraction of other sports bets and odds.
In addition, DK Horse offers live streaming of races, which I will discuss in more detail shortly.
By registering for DK Horse in Virginia and using the code HORSE, you will receive a deposit match of 100% up to $250.
About TVG online horse betting
TVG, a popular horse race betting app in Virginia, is facing potential changes in its current form. Despite the availability of the app at present, its future may entail a different experience. This shift comes as TVG was acquired by FanDuel, resulting in the rebranding of TVG’s broadcasts as FanDuel TV, while the app itself continues to exist.
At present, you have the ability to utilize the app to access TVG and place bets on horse races. Additionally, the site is currently providing a $200 bonus in the event that your initial bet results in a loss, by entering the promo code 200TVG.
Can you live stream the Kentucky Derby with Virginia horse racing apps?
You can live-stream races while betting on both DK Horse and TVG, which is a great feature that allows you to easily determine the outcome of your bet.
However, when it comes to the Kentucky Derby, things become a bit more complex. Although horse race betting apps offer live streaming for regular races, the broadcasting rights for the Kentucky Derby are less clear. TVG, for instance, states in its Derby FAQ that watching the race requires signing in with a TV account.
DK Horse does not explicitly state whether it will offer a live stream of the Kentucky Derby. However, given its partnership with Churchill Downs, there is a possibility that it may be available. It is advisable to check, but there is no assurance that you can stream the Derby through DK Horse.
How to watch the Kentucky Derby live
NBC will broadcast the Kentucky Derby, with additional coverage on NBCSports and Peacock.
In addition, FanDuel TV (previously known as TVG) is anticipated to provide coverage of the race.
Is FanDuel Racing live in Virginia?
FanDuel Racing is indeed a horse race betting platform offered by FanDuel, but unfortunately, it is currently unavailable in Virginia.
Currently, the FanDuel-powered app TVG is the go-to choice for Virginia horse racing enthusiasts. The TVG app proudly states “Powered by FanDuel” at the top, as FanDuel has acquired TVG, making it a reliable option for fans of VA horse racing.
There is a possibility that FanDuel Racing might discontinue the TVG brand in the future and make a comeback in Virginia. However, there is no confirmation on when this might occur. If it does happen, it is likely to take place after the Kentucky Derby, as this event is a significant source of revenue for horse race betting apps.