The opening leg of the Triple Crown series in the United States is just days away, with the Kentucky Derby being staged at Churchill Downs on May 4. It promises to be a thrilling edition of the race, and there are a number of exciting matchups betting options available online for punters.
Schedule & How To Watch
- When: Saturday, May 4, 2024
- Where: Churchill Downs, Kentucky
- How To Watch: NBC
Kentucky Derby Matchups Offshore Odds
Fierceness vs Sierra Leone
The two market leaders in the Kentucky Derby betting both boast strong claims for success this year. Sierra Leone has won two from two in 2024, which included a professional display when scoring by over a length in the G1 Blue Grass Stakes at the start of April.
However, it was hard not to have been taken by Fierceness’ run in the G1 Florida Derby on his previous outing when beating a talented field by 13 lengths. Therefore, the Todd Pletcher runner is our pick in this matchup.
Catching Freedom vs Forever Young
Catching Freedom has done very little wrong on track for trainer Brad Cox to this point. He registered a first win in stakes company on his second start in the company, landing the G2 Louisiana Derby by a widening margin from Honor Marie.
However, Japan’s hope in the Derby this year looks like the real deal, and Forever Young could come out in this matchup if he replicates his run in the G2 UAE Derby last month.
Just A Touch vs Dornoch
Danny Gargan has a leading chance in the Derby this year with Dornoch, who recorded an impressive win over Sierra Leone in muddy conditions in the G2 Remsen last year.
Since then, he landed the G2 Fountain of Youth, which was cut up badly following late scratches, and has finished fourth behind Sierra Leone. The lack of rain in the early forecast could hinder his chances in the Derby, meaning that the progressive Just A Touch looks a sound bet in this matchup.
