FanDuel Racing launches new user bonus campaign ahead of 2026 Kentucky Derby
The promotion, timed for the May 2 race at Churchill Downs, allows credits to be used globally and remains valid for seven days
FanDuel Racing has introduced a promotional offer targeting new users in the lead-up to the 2026 Kentucky Derby. The campaign provides a $25 racing bonus credit to individuals who register, deposit funds, and place a first wager of $5 or more on any horse race via the app. This initiative coincides with the Run for the Roses, scheduled to take place on May 2, 2026.
The bonus credits are valid for a period of seven days from issuance and can be applied to wagers on any horse race globally. Unlike some previous offers, no physical promo code is required to claim the bonus; it is awarded automatically once the wagering criteria are met. Users may utilise the credits to place a single $25 wager or split them across multiple smaller bets at their discretion.
The promotion arrives as the platform highlights the historic context of the upcoming event. Trainer Bob Baffert is on track to potentially break the all-time record for most Kentucky Derby wins, which is currently held by Ben Jones at seven. A victory in the 2026 race would see Baffert become the only trainer to win seven different Derbies, a milestone that has been anticipated since his Triple Crown win with American Pharaoh in 2015.
FanDuel Racing, which was established on September 1, 2022, following the rebranding of TVG, is part of a major entity that reported nearly $6 billion in revenue in 2024. The platform continues to offer various handicapping tools, including a My Stable feature for tracking favourites and a handicapping store for purchasing in-depth data. The site also notes that it previously offered a Road to the Derby Money Back Special for bettors backing prep races.
Regarding account funding, the platform has ceased accepting credit card deposits. Instead, users can utilise debit cards, online banking, and third-party platforms such as Venmo and Apple Pay. The company states that it does not charge a fee for deposits or withdrawals, though certain banking institutions may classify race book deposits as cash advances and apply their own fees.
In terms of wagering flexibility, users can cancel horse racing wagers for a full refund prior to the race start, with the exception of futures pools. This policy allows bettors to adjust their positions before the event begins, provided the race has not commenced. The platform remains licensed and regulated as a race book operated by the industry's largest online sports betting company.
