Super Bowl and Kentucky Derby: How The Two Events Correlate

When we talk about the most iconic sporting events in American culture, we can narrow down the selection to the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby.

Both of these events have a long history, and they attract thousands of spectators every year. On the surface, they couldn’t be more different. One is played on a grass field with a ball, and the other is a dirt horse race.

But if we dig a bit deeper we can find some fascinating connections between these two iconic events that bring liveliness to the United States every year.

So, let’s compare the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby and find out how these two events correlates.

What Are These Events All About?

If you are new to horse racing, or the other way around, let’s learn more about these two events and what makes them special.

The Super Bowl

This is the championship game of the National Football League (NFL). It usually takes place on the first Sunday in February, and it is without a doubt one of the most-watched television events in the U.S., with over 123 million viewers.

That’s why the ads space goes crazy here, and a 30-second spot could cost you around $7 million.

The Kentucky Derby

On the other hand, we have one of the biggest horse racing events, not just in the United States, but in the world. Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown championship, and it happens the first Saturday in May.

It is often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” – and let me tell you, it is not a coincidence that the event got this name. 

Although it is quite shorter and there is usually no halftime show with big stars, the Kentucky Derby still attracts thousands of spectators. In fact, last year’s 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby attracted more than 150,000 spectators, which is probably the most spectators out of all sports.

How Do the Super Bowl and Kentucky Derby Correlate?

But how can we connect the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby?

1. They’re Both Cultural Phenomena

First of all, they are both cultural phenomena. Remember, we are not talking about sporting events, but cultural experiences that get people that never heard about horse racing or football excited.

The Super Bowl it’s a day of parties, crazy commercials, and some of the most impressive halftime shows. 

On the other hand, the Kentucky Derby has that Southern charm, it is draped in high fashion and tradition. People here are not showing up only for the race, but also to connect with other influential people, to dress up, place bets, and enjoy some good food and drinks.

Both of these sports have become integrated into American culture, which is why they are special.

2. Betting Is a Huge Part of Both Events

Next, we have betting, which is obviously a big part of both events. They both attract so much attention that even people that never placed a bet want to wager on the outcome.

Now which one gets the biggest betting action?

Well, the Super Bowl is leading the way, where a staggering $16 billion and more are wagered. Maybe the Super Bowl gets lower attendance, maybe because of arena limitations, but when ticomes to betting, hardly any sporting event comes close, apart from the World Cup.

On the other hand, the Kentucky Derby isn’t a slouch either. In 2023, the total betting action was around $300 million. Maybe with the rise of horse track betting online, we will see an increase in the total value wagered on this event in the future.

3. They’re Both Steeped in Tradition

Next, we have a tradition, which obviously plays an important part in sports, especially in horse racing.

Here, the Kentucky Derby takes the throne, and it is hard to find an event that has so much history and tradition as the Run for the Roses.

4. They’re Both Big Business

We also have to mention their economic impact, which is huge. Host cities of the Super Bowl see an economic boost of 300 million, and the Kentucky Derby generates over $400 million annually for the Louisville economy, especially being a major tourist attraction and stationery every year.

Bringing People Together

One of the most beautiful things about both events is how they bring people together.

● Super Bowl: Whether you’re hosting a party or attending one, the Super Bowl is a communal experience. It’s a day when rivalries are set aside (mostly), and everyone gathers to cheer, laugh, and maybe cry a little.

● Kentucky Derby: The Derby is a social event as much as it is a sporting one. From fancy hats to friendly wagers, it’s a chance to connect with others and celebrate a shared love of tradition and competition.

Final Words

As you can see, although the Kentucky Derby and the Super Bowl might look like sports that have nothing in common, we can see a big correlation between these two events. One thing is for sure, the world wouldn’t be the same without the passion, drama, and excitement that both of these events bring to use every year.