There are multiple ways to enjoy horse racing on television. Viewers can tune in to dedicated horse racing channels, such as TVG or HRTV, which offer live coverage of races from around the world. Additionally, many major networks, like ESPN and NBC, broadcast horse racing events during major racing seasons. Finally, some online streaming services, such as FuboTV and Sling TV, offer access to horse racing channels and live events.
Major Networks Broadcasting Horse Races
Catching the thrill of horse racing from the comfort of your home is now easier than ever, thanks to the coverage provided by several major television networks. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, here’s your guide to watching the exhilarating sport on TV.
Major Networks
These are some of the prominent networks that broadcast horse racing:
- NBC
- Fox Sports
- TVG
- FS1
Coverage Details
Each network offers a varying schedule of races, with some focusing on major events like the Triple Crown series and others providing extensive coverage of regional races. Here’s a breakdown of their coverage:
| Network | Events Covered | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| NBC | Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes), Breeders’ Cup | Major events |
| Fox Sports | Major stakes races, regional races | Regular coverage |
| TVG | Live horse races from multiple tracks, simulcasting | 24/7 coverage |
| FS1 | Major racing events, including handicapping shows | Occasional coverage |
Streaming Services Offering Live Coverage
If you’re a horse racing enthusiast but don’t have access to a TV with the right channels, don’t fret. Here are some streaming services that offer live coverage of horse racing:
- TVG: A dedicated horse racing streaming service that offers live coverage from over 150 tracks worldwide.
- FanDuel TV: Sports-focused streaming service that includes live horse racing coverage, along with other sports.
- BetMGM: A sportsbook and streaming service that provides live horse racing coverage for subscribers.
- TwinSpires: A horse betting platform that also offers live horse racing streaming to its members.
These services typically require a subscription for access, but they offer various packages and pricing options to suit different needs.
| Service | Monthly Subscription | Tracks Covered |
|---|---|---|
| TVG | $9.99 | 150+ |
| FanDuel TV | $9.99 | Not specified |
| BetMGM | Subscription required (amount varies) | Not specified |
| TwinSpires | Subscription required (amount varies) | Not specified |
To determine which service is right for you, consider the number of tracks you want to have access to, as well as any additional features or promotions offered by each platform.
Dedicated Horse Racing Channels
There are several dedicated horse racing channels available on TV that offer live coverage of races from around the world. These channels typically provide in-depth analysis and commentary, as well as interviews with jockeys, trainers, and owners.
Here are some of the most popular dedicated horse racing channels:
- TVG
- FanDuel TV
- Horse Racing TV
- ESPN2 (select races)
- CBS Sports Network (select races)
In addition to these dedicated channels, there are also a number of regional sports networks (RSNs) that offer coverage of horse racing. These channels typically focus on races from their local area, but they may also air national races and events.
| Channel | Availability | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| TVG | Cable, satellite, streaming | $19.99/month |
| FanDuel TV | Streaming | Free with FanDuel account |
| Horse Racing TV | Cable, satellite | $14.99/month |
| ESPN2 | Cable, satellite | Included with ESPN subscription |
| CBS Sports Network | Cable, satellite | Included with CBS subscription |
Regional Sports Networks Televising Races
If you’re looking to watch horse racing on TV, your best bet is to check your local regional sports network (RSN). Many RSNs have deals with racetracks in their area to broadcast races live. Here’s a list of some of the RSNs that televise horse racing:
- FS1: Broadcasts races from the New York Racing Association tracks (Aqueduct, Belmont Park, and Saratoga Race Course), as well as the Breeders’ Cup and the Pegasus World Cup.
- FS2: Broadcasts races from Churchill Downs, Keeneland, and other tracks in Kentucky.
- TVG: A dedicated horse racing network that broadcasts races from tracks all over the country, including the Triple Crown races.
- HRTV: Another dedicated horse racing network that broadcasts races from tracks in the United States and Canada.
In addition to these RSNs, there are also a number of other channels that occasionally broadcast horse racing, such as ESPN, NBCSN, and CBS Sports Network. However, these channels typically only show the biggest races, such as the Triple Crown races and the Breeders’ Cup.
If you’re not sure which RSN carries horse racing in your area, you can check the channel listings for your cable or satellite provider. You can also find a list of RSNs that televise horse racing on the websites of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) and the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA).
Here is a table summarizing the information above:
| Channel | Tracks |
|---|---|
| FS1 | Aqueduct, Belmont Park, Saratoga Race Course, Breeders’ Cup, Pegasus World Cup |
| FS2 | Churchill Downs, Keeneland |
| TVG | Tracks all over the country, including the Triple Crown races |
| HRTV | Tracks in the United States and Canada |
Well, there you have it, folks! Now you know all the ways to watch horse racing on TV. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie to the sport, I hope this article has helped you find the perfect way to catch all the action. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to visit again soon for more horse racing tips and tricks!