Virginia Derby Stays a Kentucky Derby Qualifier
Gov. Abigail Spanberger says the Virginia Derby will keep its official qualifying status for the 2027 Kentucky Derby.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Equestrian
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Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced that the Virginia Derby at Colonial Downs will remain an official Kentucky Derby qualifier for 2027. The race will be held March 14, 2027, awarding 50 qualifying points toward the 153rd Kentucky Derby.
Why it matters
Retaining qualifier status keeps a path to the Kentucky Derby open for horses running in Virginia, and it supports the state's racing event as a regional draw. The announcement gives trainers and owners a fixed points opportunity ahead of the 2027 season.
The 2027 race awards 50 qualifying points toward the 153rd Kentucky Derby, following a prior edition that generated about $122 million and drew nearly 10,000 attendees. Further ticketing and schedule details have not yet been announced.
The players
Abigail Spanberger
Abigail Spanberger is the Governor of Virginia, whose office announced the Virginia Derby's continued status as a Kentucky Derby qualifier.
Colonial Downs
Colonial Downs is a Thoroughbred racetrack in New Kent County, Virginia, that hosts the Virginia Derby.
The details
Colonial Downs will host three days of live racing from March 11 to March 13, 2027, with the Virginia Derby run on March 14. Tickets go on sale at noon on Tuesday, November 10.
Timeline
November 10, 2026: Virginia Derby tickets go on sale at noon.
March 11–13, 2027: Three days of live racing at Colonial Downs.
March 14, 2027: 2027 Virginia Derby race at Colonial Downs.
Roadmap
The Virginia Derby's continued qualifier status follows the pattern of its prior edition, which generated about $122 million and drew nearly 10,000 attendees. The 2027 race keeps Colonial Downs positioned as a regional feeder for the Kentucky Derby.
Horses that finish well in the Virginia Derby can earn 50 points toward a spot in the 153rd Kentucky Derby. Fans planning to attend should note that tickets go on sale at noon on Tuesday, November 10.
The takeaway
Keeping the Virginia Derby as a Kentucky Derby qualifier gives Virginia-based runners a direct route to the nation's most prominent Thoroughbred race. Readers planning to attend should watch for ticket sales opening November 10.
What happens next
The 2027 Virginia Derby will be held March 14, 2027, at Colonial Downs, with ticket sales beginning November 10, 2026.
Further reading
For more on Thoroughbred racing and qualifying paths, explore Equestrian coverage.
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