• by Tanya Gazdik , March 26, 2025

Ford Motor Co., an automaker rooted in Kentucky for over a century, is renewing its long-standing partnership with Churchill Downs Racetrack. 

The automaker gains exclusive category rights and new naming rights as the exclusive automotive sponsor of the Kentucky Derby through 2029.

This is more than just a sponsorship, according to the automaker. Ford has an ongoing commitment to Kentucky, where it employs approximately 12,000 people at Kentucky Truck Plant and Louisville Assembly Plant, says Phil O'Connor, director of global marketing communications – Ford Blue and Model e at Ford Motor Company,

"Our heritage of capability, passion and innovation make our friends at Churchill Downs Racetrack ideal partners,” O’Connor says in a release. 

Ford is expanding its presence at Churchill Downs, including renaming the First Turn Club to the Ford First Turn Club, and will offer fans views of the track and top-tier amenities.  

Derby Day will feature Ford's latest lineup of vehicles alongside new Ford-themed experiences designed to engage with local fans and celebrate the history of America's longest running sport event.  

Ford will introduce interactive vehicle displays and Ford-themed activations throughout Derby Week at key locations, including the Paddock Plaza and VIP Gate.

Ford will showcase vehicles assembled up the road in Louisville, Kentucky, such as the all-new Ford Expedition and F-Series Super Duty pickup truck, highlighting the company's role as the largest vehicle assembler in the state.

The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby will take place on May 3. Other sponsors of the iconic event include Woodford Reserve, which is the presenting sponsor, along with Longines, White Claw, SAP, Twinspires and NBC Sports.