SPORTS

Late scratch reduces Kentucky Derby field to nineteen

PUBLISHED May 2, 2026, 10:26 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 4

Center 100%

Sources: 4

Louisville, Ky. The Puma was scratched from the 152nd Kentucky Derby less than 12 hours before the scheduled 6:57 p.m. EDT post time on Saturday, May 2, after Churchill Downs officials reported a swollen leg from a skin infection. The late withdrawal reduced the field to 19 starters and prevented Corona de Oro from entering off the also-eligible list. Trainers Gustavo Delgado Sr. and Jr. confirmed The Puma opened at 10-1 and was bet down to 8-1 before the scratch; Delgado Jr. called the timing 'incredibly disappointing.' This was the fourth scratch announced during Derby week — Silent Tactic, Fulleffort and Right to Party were also removed — and officials say the race will proceed Saturday evening with a $5 million purse.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Silent Tactic was scratched Wednesday of Derby week.
Fulleffort was scratched Thursday of Derby week.
Right to Party was scratched Friday before post time.
The Puma was scratched less than 12 hours before the 6:57 p.m. EDT post time on Saturday, May 2.
Churchill Downs confirmed the race will proceed Saturday evening with a 19-horse field and standard purse distribution.

News Intelligence

If you're a betting enthusiast, this shake-up could affect your odds. The Puma's scratch means 19 horses are now in the running. Check your bets and adjust accordingly. It's a reminder that in horse racing, anything can happen.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

Alternate entries (Great White, Ocelli, Robusta), their trainers and owners benefited by gaining spots in the Derby field and access to potential purse earnings and wagering attention following The Puma's late scratch.

Who Impacted

The Puma's connections — trainers Gustavo Delgado Sr. and Jr., owners and backers — lost the opportunity to compete in the Derby and potential earnings when the horse was scratched due to a swollen leg from a skin infection.

Media Bias