Horse racing has long been called the “Sport of Kings,” and thanks to modern broadcasting, you don’t need to be at the racetrack to enjoy it. Fans can watch major races on national TV, follow live racing every week on specialized channels, or stream races online from anywhere in the world.
If you’re wondering “Where can I watch horse races on TV?” the answer depends on whether you want to watch the Triple Crown races, international events, or daily racing from U.S. tracks. Let’s break it down.
Major TV Networks for Horse Racing
NBC Sports
NBC is the broadcast home of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes—the three jewels of the Triple Crown. They also carry the Breeders’ Cup World Championships each fall. Coverage is typically available on the NBC broadcast network as well as NBC Sports digital platforms.
Learn more at NBC Sports Horse Racing.
FOX Sports
FOX Sports recently became a major player in horse racing broadcasting. They cover daily racing from the New York Racing Association (NYRA) tracks, including Belmont Park, Saratoga, and Aqueduct, under their “America’s Day at the Races” program.
Visit FOX Sports Horse Racing for upcoming schedules.
TVG / FanDuel TV
One of the most comprehensive horse racing networks is FanDuel TV (formerly TVG). Available on many cable and satellite packages, it broadcasts live horse racing every day from U.S. and international tracks, along with expert commentary, handicapping shows, and replays.
Streaming Options for Horse Racing
Where can I watch horse races on TV? Of course, in this day and age, watching horse races isn’t limited to cable or broadcast TV anymore. Fans can easily stream live racing online:
- NBC Sports app – Streams Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup events.
- FOX Sports app – Offers “America’s Day at the Races” coverage.
- FanDuel TV+ app – Live-streams races and analysis programs.
- Track websites – Some racetracks, like Churchill Downs and Keeneland, provide live-streaming directly on their websites.
International fans can also find streams through Racing TV (UK/Ireland) or Sky Sports Racing.
Can You Watch Horse Racing for Free?
Yes, you can watch horse racing for free but with some limitations. Nationally televised races like the Kentucky Derby on NBC are available free over-the-air, but some of the day’s coverage is on PeacockTV. Some racetrack websites also provide free live streaming of certain events. However, for daily coverage, a subscription or cable package with FanDuel TV or FOX Sports is often required.
Why Horse Racing on TV Still Matters
Even with streaming widely available, TV coverage brings a sense of tradition and excitement, especially for iconic events like the Derby. The high-definition broadcasts, professional commentary, and behind-the-scenes features provide an experience that casual fans and serious horseplayers alike enjoy.
Final Thoughts on Where Can I Watch Horse Races on TV?
Whether you’re a fan of the Triple Crown, daily racing action, or international meets, horse racing is widely available to watch on TV and online. NBC and FOX cover the biggest events, while FanDuel TV provides year-round access to races from around the globe.
If you want the full experience, combine TV viewing with streaming apps and track websites—you’ll never miss the thrill of the stretch run.
FAQs About Watching Horse Races
What channel is the Kentucky Derby on?
NBC is the exclusive broadcaster of the Kentucky Derby in the U.S. Some of the undercard races are shown on PeacockTV, NBC’s streaming platform.
Can I watch horse racing without cable?
Yes, you can watch free coverage of major races on NBC and stream races through apps like NBC Sports, FOX Sports, or FanDuel TV+.
Is FanDuel TV the same as TVG?
Yes, TVG was rebranded as FanDuel TV in 2022 but continues to cover daily horse racing across the U.S. and abroad.
Can I watch international horse racing on U.S. TV?
Yes, FanDuel TV and certain online platforms stream races from Europe, Asia, and Australia.
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