LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The 152nd Kentucky Derby is set for Saturday at Churchill Downs, with post time scheduled for 6:57 p.m. ET in the signature race of the Triple Crown season. A field of 20 three-year-olds will vie for the garland of roses in the $5 million Run for the Roses, promising one of the most anticipated — and heavily wagered — days in American sports.
2026 Kentucky Derby Predictions: Expert Picks, Favorites and Odds for Historic Run for the Roses
Renegade, trained by Todd Pletcher and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., drew the rail and opened as the 4-1 morning-line favorite after an impressive Arkansas Derby victory. Other top contenders include Commandment and Further Ado at around 6-1, Chief Wallabee near 8-1, and So Happy and The Puma in single digits. Odds will fluctuate until race time as betting action intensifies.
The race shapes up as wide-open, with strong opinions on both sides of the favorite. Experts highlight a mix of speed, stamina and tactical versatility across the field, drawn from key prep races including the Florida Derby, Louisiana Derby, Blue Grass and others. Cool, dry conditions are forecast, favoring a fast track that could produce blistering times in the 1¼-mile classic.
Renegade brings elite credentials but faces the dreaded inside post, which historically challenges horses in large fields. Pletcher, a multiple Derby winner, has the colt sharp, yet some handicappers worry about rail position and early traffic. Commandment, from the Brad Cox barn, impressed in Florida and could stalk or close effectively with Luis Saez aboard. Further Ado, breaking from post 17 or 18, offers outside speed or mid-pack versatility depending on the early pace scenario.
Value plays abound. Emerging Market, trained by Chad Brown, has limited but high-quality starts and could offer a price around 15-1. Danon Bourbon represents strong Japanese influence and international interest at double-digit odds. Chief Wallabee, another Cox trainee, and The Puma, an improving Gustavo Delgado charge, also draw attention as potential upset candidates.
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Jody Demling, who nailed a lucrative superfecta in a prior Derby, is among those fading the top choice. He points to The Puma’s consistency and a longshot “freak” with upside in exotics. Other experts, including those from BloodHorse and Horse Racing Nation, lean toward Commandment or Further Ado on top, with Emerging Market frequently appearing in top-three lists for its tactical flexibility.
The full projected field, subject to final scratches, features a blend of established stars and live longshots:
Post 1: Renegade (4-1 to 5-1), Pletcher/Ortiz Jr. — Speedy Arkansas Derby winner but rail concerns loom.
Post 6: Commandment (6-1 to 7-1), Cox/Saez — Florida form gives him a strong shot to stalk and pounce.
Post ~17-18: Further Ado (6-1), strong closer with stamina for the distance.
Post 9 or so: The Puma (5-1 to 10-1) — Late bloomer undefeated or near in recent starts.
Chief Wallabee (8-1), So Happy (6-1), Danon Bourbon (~14-1), Emerging Market (~13-1) and others round out a competitive group.
Scratches have already adjusted the lineup, with horses like Fulleffort and Silent Tactic out, bringing in alternates such as Great White or Ocelli. The 20-horse gate ensures chaos, where post position, pace and jockey decisions often decide the outcome.
Handicapping angles focus on the Road to the Kentucky Derby points system, which qualified the top earners. Prep races highlighted closers and versatile types over pure speed. Brad Cox holds a powerful hand with multiple live contenders, while international bloodlines add depth. Weather and track bias will play roles — a dry forecast favors speed but middle and late runners have succeeded in recent editions.
Betting interest is expected to shatter records. Win bets on favorites, exactas, trifectas and superfectas will dominate, with exotic wagers offering massive payouts in a 20-horse scrum. TwinSpires and other platforms report heavy early action on Renegade, Commandment and value horses like Danon Bourbon.
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Beyond the wagering, the Derby embodies tradition. Mint juleps, extravagant hats and celebrity sightings will fill the Churchill Downs infield and grandstand. The event kicks off a whirlwind May leading to the Preakness and Belmont, with potential for the first Triple Crown in years if a horse sweeps the series.
Experts’ consensus top picks vary but cluster around a few:
Win contenders: Commandment or Further Ado for many, citing tactical advantages and proven stakes form.
Place/show: The Puma, Chief Wallabee or Emerging Market for value.
Longshots: Danon Bourbon, Incredibolt or Pavlovian could crash the exotics at big prices.
One prominent handicapper likes boxing Commandment, The Puma and a closer with Emerging Market underneath. Another emphasizes Florida preps and international upside with Danon Bourbon at 20-1 range. Fading the favorite entirely is a bold but discussed strategy given the rail and large field dynamics.
The Derby’s unpredictability is legendary — longshots like Rich Strike (80-1) and Country House (via disqualification) remind bettors that pedigree, training and race-day luck trump morning-line odds. This year’s class appears deep, with no runaway standout, setting up for a memorable stretch duel.
Churchill Downs officials emphasize safety and fan experience, with enhanced security and sustainability initiatives. NBC and Peacock will broadcast nationwide, bringing the pageantry to millions.
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As horses ship in and final workouts conclude, anticipation builds. Renegade’s rail draw adds intrigue — can he overcome history? Will a closer steal the show in the final furlongs? Or does an overlooked mid-pack runner deliver the upset?
Whatever the result, the 2026 Kentucky Derby promises drama, high stakes and the enduring magic of the Sport of Kings. Bettors and fans alike will remember where they were when the gates spring open and the call of “And they’re off!” echoes through Louisville.
For those planning wagers, key strategies include focusing on horses with proven 1¼-mile stamina, favorable post positions away from the rail for traffic avoidance, and trainers with Derby success. Value exists beyond the top three morning-line choices, particularly in exotics where layering 8-1 to 20-1 horses can yield strong returns.
The Road to the Roses delivered a compelling group this year. From dominant prep wins to gritty recoveries, each contender has a story. On Saturday, only one will wear the roses — but the debate and memories will last far longer.
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Post-race analysis will dissect every move, but pre-race, the consensus expert lean favors tactical versatility over pure favoritism. Commandment, Further Ado and live prices like Emerging Market or Chief Wallabee top many professional tickets.
The Kentucky Derby remains horse racing’s crown jewel, blending athletic excellence, strategy and sheer spectacle. This year’s edition, with its balanced field and star trainers, is poised to deliver.
Lawrence Fuller has been managing portfolios for individual investors for 30 years, starting his career at Merrill Lynch in 1993 and working in the same capacity with several other Wall Street firms before realizing his long-term goal of complete independence when he founded Fuller Asset Management. He also manages the Focused Growth portfolio on the new fintech platform called Dub, which is the first copy-trading platform approved by securities regulators in the US, allowing retail investors to copy the portfolio and ongoing trades of the manager they choose automatically. You can also find him on Substack and lawrencefuller.substack.com.He is the leader of the investing group The Portfolio Architect, which focuses on an overall economic and market outlook that complements an all-weather investment strategy designed to produce consistent risk-adjusted market returns. Features include: Portfolio construction guidance, access to an “All-Weather” model portfolio and a dividend and options income portfolio, a daily brief summarizing current events, a week ahead newsletter, technical and fundamental reports, trade alerts, and 24/7 chat. Learn More.
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Josie Clarke Press Association Consumer Affairs Correspondent
11:46, 06 May 2026
Pret A Manger’s first ever drive-thru shop in Warrington, just off junction 21 of the M6(Image: Pret A Manger)
Pret A Manger has launched its first drive-thru restaurant.
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The outlet opened in Warrington, just off junction 21 of the M6 on Tuesday in partnership with Motor Fuel Group.
It marks a trial format for the brand as it extends its footprint across transport and travel hubs throughout the UK.
Out of Pret’s 500 UK locations, it currently runs 220 in airports, railway stations and motorway service stations across the country, 35 of which are managed by Motor Fuel Group.
The drive-thru features a single vehicle lane and indoor seating for up to 48 guests, alongside EV charging facilities and customer lavatories.
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Diners can choose from Pret’s complete breakfast and lunch menu, with popular snacks also on hand alongside coffee and other hot and cold beverages, including smoothies.
Pret’s president for the UK and Ireland Ross Warnes said: “Travel hubs and roadside locations present a huge growth opportunity for Pret, making the launch of our first drive-thru a natural next step in our expansion.”
Jack Tindall, head of food service operations at Motor Fuel Group, said: “As Pret’s largest UK franchise partner, opening Pret’s first ever drive-thru is a major milestone for our partnership.
“We’re incredibly proud to be part launching this new format for Pret and look forward to serving the Warrington community.”
Billionaire investor Leon Cooperman discusses artificial intelligence performance and market uncertainty amid geopolitical concerns on ‘The Claman Countdown.’
Gary Shilling, the legendary forecaster known for his bearish accuracy and being fired from Merrill Lynch for predicting the 1969-70 recession, is sounding the alarm on a 2026 economic collapse.
In a recent interview with Business Insider, Shilling warned that a U.S. recession is “almost inevitable” by year-end, driven by a “frozen” housing market, corporate investment indicators and a weakening consumer base.
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“Stocks are very expensive and there probably is a major correction coming somewhere in the relatively near future,” Shilling said. “A decline of 20% or 30% is no big deal by historical standards. So I would say that’s probably in the cards.”
“I’ve sort of made a career looking for those hidden flaws, and I don’t see anything right now that is just screaming for a big sell-off, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there,” he added.
Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange during morning trading on May 1, 2026, in New York City. (Getty Images)
Across American real estate, buyers and sellers have been reluctant to make moves as interest rates remain elevated, and mortgage loan rates slowly tick down. There is also a lack of affordable inventory and reports of rising foreclosures, signaling homeowners continue to get squeezed.
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Shilling also pointed to what he described as a “collapse” in capital expenditures, or large investments that companies expect will last for years and boost overall future value. Business Insider cited that broader capital expenditures grew just 3.9% by the end of 2025, compared with a pandemic peak of 24% capex growth.
The economist spotlighted the state of the U.S. consumer as the third pillar leading to a recession, with the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge remaining stubbornly high in March, rising 0.7% month-over-month and up 3.5% from a year ago.
Former White House Council of Economic Advisers Chair Tyler Goodspeed discusses the economic impact of the Iran conflict and whether the U.S. is facing a recession on ‘Mornings with Maria.’
When it comes to economic solutions, Shilling said a downturn could be prevented by fiscal stimulus or a strengthening consumer — “both of which he thinks are unlikely.”
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“That’s really on very thin ice in terms of income, in terms of people’s willingness to spend,” Shilling said.
BNY Wealth head of investment strategy and equities Alicia Levine discusses investing amid the geopolitical conflict on ‘Making Money.’
Other economists appear divided on the economic outlook for 2026. BNY Wealth Head of Investment Strategy and Equities Alicia Levine said no recession is coming on “Making Money with Charles Payne” last month; around the same time, billionaire investor Leon Cooperman told FOX Business’ Liz Claman that the U.S. is heading toward a recession.
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“My own view is, there’s a lot of problems out there. The market’s too highly valued,” Cooperman said.
“It just feels that the market was already weakening going into the Iran conflict,” Levine countered. “Earnings have moved higher since the beginning of the year, 3% higher… that’s what we’re looking at, and we don’t see a recession this year.”
The budget carrier is preparing to add another aircraft to its fleet at the South West airport
An easyJet plane
Budget carrier easyJet has launched a new flight route from Bristol Airport to Spain. The airline’s new Seville service took off over the weekend and is now operating twice a week – on Tuesdays and Saturdays – to Andalusia’s capital.
The news comes as easyJet prepares to add its 20th aircraft to its fleet at Bristol, and launch new routes to Reus, in Spain, and Thessaloniki, in Greece, this summer.
Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the launch of our new service from Bristol to Seville, further expanding the range of routes and destinations available for our customers in the South West at fantastic fares.
“Our continued success in Bristol is a clear testament to the popularity of our flights and holidays and the growth of our fleet with an additional aircraft this summer will further unlock the opportunity of the demand that we see for both leisure and business travel.”
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Rupert Lawrie, commercial director at Bristol Airport, added: “We are thrilled to welcome easyJet’s new route to Seville. This Spanish city is an incredible place, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture and world-famous architecture. Not only is it a great base to explore all the leisure opportunities that southern Spain has to offer, but it opens up even more links for European visitors to the South West.
“It also plays an important role in connecting regional businesses with key international markets, including global leaders such as Airbus. We’re proud to continue working with easyJet expanding travel opportunities for all of our customers and making it easier to explore and connect.”
In April, easyJet Holidays chief executive Garry Wilson told its customers they could be “confident” bookings with the company would “go ahead as planned” without extra surcharges amid rising fuel costs caused by the Middle East conflict.
“We know that holidaymakers may have questions about what recent global events might mean for their travel plans this summer, so we are giving our customers absolute peace of mind that no surcharges will be added to their flights or package holidays,” he said at the time.
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Last month, easyJet warned the impact of the Iran war would likely hit its profits. The company expects an increased pre-tax loss of £540-£560m for the six months to March.
But the airline typically generates more revenue in the second half of the year, which includes the busy summer season.
Hero MotoCorp shares gained as much as 2% to their day’s high of Rs 5,238 on the BSE on Wednesday after the two-wheeler major reported a robust performance for the March quarter, with record revenue and profit for Q4 FY26.
Revenue from operations rose 29% YoY to Rs 12,797 crore, compared with Rs 9,939 crore in the same period last year. Profit after tax increased 30% year-on-year to Rs 1,401 crore, up from Rs 1,081 crore. EBITDA came in at Rs 1,856 crore for the quarter, registering a 31.1% rise from Rs 1,416 crore a year earlier.
The company sold 17.14 lakh motorcycles and scooters during the quarter, marking a 24% increase over the year-ago period, driven by demand across entry-level, premium and scooter categories. The board also recommended a final dividend of Rs 75 per equity share of face value Rs 2 each, subject to shareholder approval.
Should you buy Hero MotoCorp shares?
Goldman Sachs has maintained a Sell rating on Hero MotoCorp, with a target price of Rs 4,300, a downside of 16% from the current levels. The brokerage said the company’s Q4 performance was broadly in line with estimates, with average selling prices improving sequentially on the back of a richer product mix and price hikes. It highlighted commodity inflation and supply chain stability as key factors to watch, along with the company’s market share outlook for FY27 and export trends.
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Hero Moto management commentary
Hero MotoCorp said it has retained its position as the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters for the 25th consecutive year, reinforcing its leadership in the segment. It also expanded its product portfolio with a series of new launches and updates, including the HF Deluxe Pro, Glamour X, Destini 125, Destini 110, Xoom 160, Xtreme 125R and Xpulse 210. Market share gains were driven by the entry-level segment, led by the HF Deluxe Pro, along with feature upgrades in models such as the Passion+ and the Splendor+ with XTEC 2.0 enhancements.Also read: Will Meesho’s 60% comeback rally cool or will Q4 serve as a new launchpad?
In the premium segment, the Harley-Davidson portfolio saw expansion with the launch of the H-D X440T, the return of the Street Bob, and the introduction of the new Road Glide and Street Glide models.
VIDA, the company’s electric mobility business, recorded its highest-ever annual retail performance, registering 190% growth over the previous year.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
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