The 2026 Louisiana Derby at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans is the longest Kentucky Derby prep race and awards 100 Kentucky Derby points to the winner! This means the winner is guaranteed a spot in the 2026 Kentucky Derby. In order to win this 1 and 3/16th mile race, horses need both stamina and speed. In addition, the stretch is the longest out of the US tracks meaning closers have time to close and speedy horses need to evenly distribute their energy. This video examines all 9 contenders in the 2026 Louisiana Derby and how well they fit into the race architecture.

The Contenders

Post Position 1: Pavlovian (Trainer: Doug O'Neill). Winner of the Sunland Derby. Showed heart as he dueled down the stretch. Also had a strong gallop out which suggests he can get the distance of the Louisiana Derby

Post Position 2: Autobahn (Trainer: Brad Cox). First two races were unremarkable but showed talent in the last race. Does he have the acceleration to win the Louisiana Derby? Post

Position 3: Chip Honcho (Trainer: Steve Asmussen). Knows and likes the track. Speedy type that almost won the Risen Star here at the Fair Grounds over Paladin.

Post Position 4: Universe (Trainer: Kenny McPeek). Has the class but is lacking the wins and speed.

Post Position 5: Golden Tempo (Trainer: Cherie DeVaux). Blinkers go on as this closer needs to be more engaged early. Likes the track and loves the stretch here at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans.

Post Position 6: Spirit of Royal (Trainer: Dallas Stewart). Brings the spirit but is lacking speed and potentially distance ability. Trainer can stun!

Post Position 7: Blacksmith (Trainer: Bob Baffert). Bob Baffert does not typically send his horses to the Louisiana Derby. This horse in intriguing here.

Post Position 8: Easterly (Trainer: Brad Cox). Lightly raced but talented with a strong gallop out suggesting he can get the extra distance. Brings the TizNow influence in his pedigree.

Post Position 9: Emerging Market (Trainer: Chad Brown). One big effort, lots of speed, but will it carry over to the Fairgrounds and the 1 and 3/16th distance of the Louisiana Derby?

This video is for informational and educational purposes only. All opinions are my own and not intended as betting advice. Please wager responsibly. Racing Tips are for Informational Purposes only. Horse Betting is not legal in every state so if you are betting, make sure it is legal