The Mint at Kentucky Downs' 2026 racing schedule includes $3M Nashville Derby | Exclusive

Kentucky horse racing fans will have another chance to see some of the sport's biggest names next summer, as Kentucky Downs has unveiled its 2026 racing schedule, featuring the $3 million Nashville Derby and a record-setting $37 million purse.

>The Mint Kentucky Downs announced July 21 that its 2026 meet will run for seven race days between Aug. 29 and Sept. 9 at the Franklin track, located about an hour north of Nashville.

>The schedule includes several graded stakes races, Breeders’ Cup qualifiers and the Nashville Derby.

>Officials said the meet will offer a total purse of $37 million, with some of the largest individual race payouts in American horse racing.

>"Last year, our racetrack attracted racing fans from all over the country and was viewed by millions globally. We had horses come from all over Europe to compete and set wagering records, making Franklin, KY, an important stop on the racing calendar," said Vice President of Racing at Kentucky Downs Ted Nicholson in a statement.

>"The energy and anticipation are building for this year’s races, and we can’t wait to showcase the best in the world to Nashville and its surroundings," he added.

>“This is truly one of the premier sporting and social events in the country, and we are fortunate to host it right in our backyard – you don’t have to drive three hours or fly across the country to experience it.”

> Here's what else to know.

Kentucky Downs unveils 2026 scheduleThe U.S. Open of Turf Championships will take place over Labor Day weekend, Sept. 5-7, and will feature the Nashville Derby as well as two Breeders' Cup "Win and You're In" races.

>The Nashville Derby carries a $3 million purse, making it the second-richest horse race in the United States, behind only the Kentucky Derby, according to Kentucky Downs.

>The track’s marquee events, including the Nashville Derby and Breeders’ Cup qualifying races, are scheduled for Sept. 5. Each race day will feature at least 10 races, with action expected to run from about noon until 6:30 p.m.

How to purchase ticketsTickets for all 2026 race days are available online.

class="related-link">More: Cherie DeVaux won the Kentucky Derby. Now, she has a signature bourbon

>Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for The Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com.

>This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: The Mint at Kentucky Downs' 2026 racing schedule includes $3M Nashville Derby | Exclusive