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Latino jockeys have been shaping the Kentucky Derby for decades—and not just in passing. With at least 21 wins under their belt, their impact is anything but minor. While the spotlight usually lands on the horses or the hats, it’s the riders—especially the Latino ones—who’ve helped define this race’s history. And that legacy is still growing.
On Saturday evening at Churchill Downs, Sovereignty triumphed over 18 competitors on a muddy track to win the 151st Kentucky Derby. Jockey Junior Alvarado, the son of former rider Rafael Alvarado, rode with precision and calm, making the victory a defining moment in both his career and his family’s racing legacy.
Latino talent once again is taking center stage at the 151st Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 3, 2025—continuing a tradition of excellence that deserves more recognition.
Latino Jockeys at the 2025 Kentucky Derby
Here's a breakdown of the Latino jockeys and their mounts:
- Martin Garcia (Mexico) – Citizen Bull
- Joel Rosario (Dominican Republic) – Tiztastic
- Junior Alvarado (Venezuela) – Sovereignty (WINNER)
- Luis Sáez (Panama) – Neoequos
- Javier Castellano (Venezuela) – Owen Almighty
- Manny Franco (Puerto Rico) – East Avenue
- Luan Machado (Brazil) – Final Gambit
Every Latino jockey who’s won the Derby
Here's a brief overview of their identities, origins, and record-setting horses:
Puerto Rico
- Angel Cordero Jr.: Cannonade (1974), Bold Forbes (1976), Spend a Buck (1985)
- John Velázquez: Animal Kingdom (2011), Always Dreaming (2017), Authentic (2020)
Mexico
- Víctor Espinoza: War Emblem (2002), California Chrome (2014), American Pharoah (2015)
- Mario Gutiérrez: I’ll Have Another (2012), Nyquist (2016)
Panama
- Braulio Baeza: Chateaugay (1963)
- Jacinto Vásquez: Genuine Risk (1980), Real Quiet (1998)
- Jorge Velásquez: Pleasant Colony (1981)
Venezuela
- Gustavo Ávila: Cañonero II (1971)
- Sonny León: Rich Strike (2022)
- Javier Castellano: Mage (2023)
- Junior Alvarado: Sovereignty (2025)
Peru
- Jorge Chávez: Monarchos (2000)
- Edgar Prado: Barbaro (2006)
Chile
- José Santos: Winning Colors (1988)
Dominican Republic
- Joel Rosario: Orb (2013)
More than just riders: A growing legacy
With three Kentucky Derby victories each, Angel Cordero Jr., John Velázquez, and Victor Espinoza lead the field, making them the most successful Latino jockeys. Their success isn’t just personal; it reflects the deep roots Latino riders have in the sport. In 2015, over 60% of Derby jockeys were Latino, showing just how much of the field they now represent. While jockeys dominate this list, Latinos have also made significant contributions behind the scenes. Think Cuban trainer Laz Barrera or the Venezuelan crew behind Mage in 2023.