Virginia officials have announced that the Virginia Derby at Colonial Downs Racetrack will once again serve as an official qualifier for the Kentucky Derby in 2026. The race is scheduled to take place on March 14, 2026, at Colonial Downs in New Kent County. The winner of the event will receive 50 qualifying points, which typically ensures a spot in the starting lineup for the Kentucky Derby, set for May 2, 2026.
Governor Glenn Youngkin highlighted the importance of this recognition for Virginia’s horse racing industry. “Virginia has a proud and growing tradition in horse racing, and the Virginia Derby is quickly becoming one of the premier races on the Road to the Kentucky Derby,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “To see our Commonwealth once again on the national stage, with the chance for a Virginia champion to compete in the Run for the Roses at the 152nd Kentucky Derby is an incredible honor and a testament to the investment, energy, and passion driving Virginia’s equine industry forward.”
Since Churchill Downs Incorporated acquired Colonial Downs in late 2022, there have been significant investments aimed at expanding and upgrading facilities. These changes have included bringing three graded stakes races—the Arlington Million, Beverly D, and Secretariat Stakes—to Virginia from other states as part of its annual Festival of Racing. In addition to these high-profile events, Colonial Downs increased its number of live race days to 44 during its most recent season and offered nearly $700,000 in average daily purses.
Gary Palmisano, Vice President of Racing at Churchill Downs Incorporated, commented on recent developments: “The growth and excitement around Virginia racing have been a real bright spot for the entire sport,” said Palmisano. “When we saw the enthusiasm and energy for the 2025 Virginia Derby, with a sold-out crowd of thousands packing Colonial Downs, we knew that Virginia had earned another opportunity to step into the global spotlight with a ‘win and you’re in’ race. With a record number of race days, steady growth, and an unbeatable fan experience, the future has never been brighter for Colonial Downs and the entire equine industry throughout Virginia.”
This announcement marks consecutive years that Colonial Downs’ signature event has been part of Kentucky Derby qualifying series criteria after drawing over 8,000 attendees during last year’s sold-out race. The previous year’s winner went on to compete in Louisville along with another top finisher from New Kent County.
Tickets for next year’s event are expected to be available soon through www.ColonialDowns.com.
