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The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby is set to capture global attention on May 3, 2025, as twenty of the world’s most promising three-year-old thoroughbreds line up at Churchill Downs.

As always, the spotlight will shine brightly on the top contenders—horses with the fastest prep times, elite pedigrees, and heavyweight trainers. But history has shown that the favorites don’t always decide the Derby. This year, several underdogs have earned their place at the gate, not just as fillers in the field but as legitimate threats shaped by unique paths, sharp workouts, and strategic campaigns.

Here’s a closer look at some of the under-the-radar horses that have captured the attention of sharp-eyed analysts and fans alike.

Luxor Cafe (15-1)

Luxor Cafe stands out as a true international story. He was bred in Kentucky, but his training has taken place in Japan, under respected trainer Noriyuki Hori. This cross-continental background gives him a rare edge, combining American bloodlines with the discipline and precision that define Japanese racing.

His sire, American Pharoah, became a household name in 2015 when he ended a 37-year drought by winning the Triple Crown. That pedigree suggests a horse that can handle big stages and tough competition.

Luxor Cafe earned its spot in the Derby by winning the Fukuryu Stakes in Japan, a qualifying race that forms part of the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby. In that race, he showed patience, strength, and the ability to finish well—traits that matter in the long and unpredictable Derby.

Since arriving at Churchill Downs, he’s looked sharp during morning workouts, moving fluidly and adjusting well to the surface. If the early pace is fast, which often happens in the Derby, Luxor Cafe has the kind of late kick that could bring him into contention in the final stretch.

As the 2025 Kentucky Derby approaches, there are plenty of factors to consider for anyone looking into 2025 betting options. With so many exciting races leading up to the main event, it’s important to take note of odds, track conditions, and any changes that could affect the outcome. The unpredictability of the Derby keeps things thrilling, and if you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the game, understanding the key dynamics can make your experience even more engaging.

Grande (20-1)

Grande is a big, strong colt who carries himself with power but runs with surprising ease. He’s trained by Todd Pletcher, a veteran of the Derby with two wins to his name, and his jockey, John Velazquez, is one of the most accomplished riders in racing history. That combination gives Grande a serious advantage regarding preparation and race-day strategy.

Although Grande is not the most experienced horse in the field, he’s steadily improved in each race. His most important prep race was the Wood Memorial, where he finished second after pressing the pace and staying in the fight to the wire.

That race proved he could hold his own against top competition. He also showed that he doesn’t need a perfect trip to be effective. Grande has steady energy and mental focus that suits the long, demanding stretch at Churchill Downs. He can run them down late if he can stay close to the leaders and get a clear path.

Rodriguez (12-1)

Rodriguez enters the Derby with a mix of talent, confidence, and proven connections. He’s trained by Bob Baffert, who returns to the Derby after a suspension that kept him out of the race the past two years. Baffert has already won the Derby six times and knows what it takes to prepare a horse for this race. Rodriguez will be ridden by Mike Smith, a Hall of Fame jockey who won the Derby with Giacomo and Justify and thrives under pressure.

Rodriguez earned his spot with a convincing win in the Wood Memorial, where he showed early speed, strong positioning, and the kind of determination that matters in a crowded, competitive field. He likes to run near the front, which can be a risky strategy in the Derby but also a powerful one if he controls the pace.

Publisher (20-1)

Publisher brings one of the most unusual stories in this year’s Derby. He’s what’s known as a maiden, which means he’s never won a race. That alone makes him a rare sight in this field, but what makes him fascinating is how close he’s come. In the Arkansas Derby, one of the most important prep races, he boldly moved from behind and finished second in a strong field.

Publisher is trained by Steve Asmussen, who holds the record for the most wins by a trainer in North American racing history. Despite all his success, Asmussen has yet to win the Kentucky Derby. That adds even more motivation to this year’s run.

Admire Daytona (30-1)

Admire Daytona comes to Kentucky from Japan, and his recent win in the UAE Derby in Dubai has turned heads. Yukihiro Kato trains him and will be ridden by Christophe Lemaire, who has succeeded in major races worldwide. Admire Daytona’s performance in Dubai showed he can handle a long race, keep a steady pace, and finish strong.

What makes him especially interesting is his background. His sire, Admire Moon, was a champion in Japan and passed on traits perfect for a long-distance race like the Derby. Admire Daytona also seems to thrive from behind, which could be an advantage in a crowded and chaotic race in the early stages.

If the leaders push each other too hard early on, this horse could close the gap in the final quarter-mile. He represents Japan’s growing influence on international racing, and a strong showing here would be a big moment for his connections and country.

Why You Should Care About Underdogs

Names like Luxor Cafe, Grande, Rodriguez, Publisher, and Admire Daytona may not be at the top of every expert’s list. But in a race where anything can happen, these horses could turn a wide-open field into something unforgettable. When the gates fly open and the crowd’s roar rises, don’t be surprised if one of them makes the moment their own.

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