Do people still watch the Kentucky Derby in 2024?

By Fan Arch March 12, 2024 22:42

The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as "The Run for the Roses," has been a staple in American sports culture for well over a century. Despite its rich history and cultural significance, the viewership of the Kentucky Derby has seen fluctuations in recent years. This article aims to delve into the current state of viewership of the Kentucky Derby in 2024, examining the recent trends, viewership numbers, and the impact of various factors on the race's popularity.

Kentucky Derby Ratings Overview

Recent Viewership Trends

The Kentucky Derby, a premier event in horse racing, has historically drawn millions of viewers. However, recent years have seen fluctuations in its viewership. According to NBC Sports, the 2022 Kentucky Derby drew an average of 16.0 million viewers, making it the most-watched "Run for the Roses" since 2019. The event's viewership peaked at an impressive 19.0 million viewers, marking the largest Kentucky Derby peak audience since 2017.

2023 Ratings

In contrast, the 2023 Kentucky Derby saw a decline in viewership, averaging 14.8 million viewers on NBC and Peacock, down from the previous year's 16 million. Despite the decrease, the 2023 race still ranked as the most-watched sporting event on TV since Super Bowl LVII in February, indicating its enduring appeal.

Historical Context

To provide historical context, it's important to note that the 2018 Kentucky Derby, which featured Justify's Triple Crown-winning run, drew significant attention, with over 15 million viewers tuning in. The race's viewership peaked at 16.3 million, reflecting a high level of interest in the event.

Factors Influencing Viewership

Competition from Other Sports

The Kentucky Derby faces stiff competition from other major sporting events, notably the NBA playoffs. In 2022, the race aired directly opposite an NBA game, potentially impacting its viewership. The presence of high-profile sporting events during the same time slot may have diluted the Derby's audience.

Streaming and Digital Platforms

In recent years, the Kentucky Derby has made strides in engaging audiences through digital platforms. The 2022 Derby, for instance, leveraged streaming services, with Peacock live streaming the event for the first time. This move contributed to a record Average Minute Audience (AMA) of 247,300 viewers across NBCUniversal streaming platforms. The utilization of digital platforms has expanded the race's reach, attracting viewers beyond traditional TV audiences.

Horse Racing Controversies

The sport of horse racing has faced challenges, including controversies surrounding horse welfare and safety. The 2023 Kentucky Derby witnessed the deaths of seven horses in the two-week period leading up to the event. Such incidents may have affected public perception and contributed to fluctuations in viewership.

Historical Perspective and Cultural Significance

Tradition and Legacy

The Kentucky Derby holds a significant place in American culture, known for its rich traditions, including the iconic mint juleps, elaborate hats, and the singing of "My Old Kentucky Home." This historical and cultural significance has contributed to the enduring appeal of the race.

Triple Crown Excitement

The Kentucky Derby marks the first leg of the prestigious Triple Crown series, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. The potential for a horse to capture the elusive Triple Crown generates excitement and draws attention to the Derby and subsequent races.

In 2024, the Kentucky Derby continues to captivate audiences, albeit with fluctuations in viewership. The race's enduring allure, cultural significance, and historical traditions maintain its relevance in the sports landscape. However, the influence of external factors, such as competition from other major sporting events and controversies within the horse racing industry, cannot be overlooked. As the race evolves to embrace digital platforms and adapt to changing audience behaviors, its ability to engage and retain viewers remains a focal point for stakeholders in the world of horse racing.

As the 148th Kentucky Derby approaches, anticipation builds for the next chapter of this storied event, highlighting the enduring fascination with "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

While the Kentucky Derby's viewership has seen fluctuations in recent years, its enduring cultural significance and the anticipation of witnessing potential Triple Crown achievements ensure that it remains a compelling and widely watched event in the world of sports.

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