Agreement extended for NBC to broadcast Kentucky Derby

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Stamford, CT (SportsNetwork.com) - A 10-year agreement has been reached between Churchill Downs and NBC Sports Group to have the network continue exclusive rights to televising the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks through 2025.

"This agreement extends our relationship with NBC to 25 years and includes what will be a very special historical moment, the 150th Kentucky Derby in 2024," said Churchill Downs Chairman and CEO Bob Evans. "We will not only achieve our financial objectives with this deal, but we will also continue to benefit from NBC's unique media assets and innovative perspective to help us continue to grow the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby brands."

NBC began broadcasting the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks under the original agreement in 2001.

"We are excited to extend our partnership with Churchill Downs for both the iconic Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby and are proud to have them as signature elements of our Championship Season," said NBC Sports Group Chairman Mark Lazarus. "This decade-long deal is a testament to the strength of the relationship between Churchill Downs Incorporated and NBC Sports, and underscores NBC's commitment to the sport of horse racing. We will continue to utilize the wide-ranging media platforms of NBCUniversal to surround the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby with wall-to-wall coverage and extensive promotion."

This year's 140th Run for the Roses will be conducted Saturday, May 3 and the Oaks for 3-year-old fillies is held one day prior to the Derby.