The Kentucky Derby field is limited to 20 horses each year. For the 2025 Kentucky Derby, there were 20 post positions available; however, due to scratches, only 19 horses actually competed in the race
. Historically, the Derby has had a maximum field size of 20 starters since 1975, with some exceptions in earlier years. The number of starters has been at least 16 in nearly every recent Derby, and 20 horses have started in 22 occasions since 1923
. In summary:
- Maximum horses allowed in the Kentucky Derby: 20
- Actual horses in the 2025 Kentucky Derby: 19 (due to scratches)
