Why has the Epsom Derby's time changed? Iconic horse race set to be impacted by train strikes and FA Cup final

talkSPORT

02 June 2023

Why has the Epsom Derby's time changed? Iconic horse race set to be impacted by train strikes and FA Cup final

The Epsom Derby is one of the UK's biggest horse races and a highlight of the season but it is set for its earliest-ever start this weekend.

Despite this, the fans are still expected to pile in and enjoy the event.

It's an incredible event, and thousands are expected to make the journey to Surrey despite impending rail strikes.

And at the end of it, one of 14 horses will be crowned champions and write themselves into the history books.

Why has The Epsom Derby's time changed?

This is the 240th edition of this iconic flat race, but this year is very different to previous because the start time has been changed.

The event traditionally starts at 4:30pm, but because of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Manchester United starting at 3pm, the race has been moved to avoid a clash.

As a result, The Derby will now get underway at 1:30pm on Saturday, June 3 - the earliest in its history.

The FA Cup final was moved after consultation with police, and horse racing authorities soon reacted.

James Crespi, Epsom Downs Racecourse's general manager speaking after the announcement, said: “This year, the first Saturday in June will play host to two Derby’s and two of Britain’s great sporting events.

“In order to give fans of both horse racing and football the opportunity to enjoy the Betfred Derby and the FA Cup Final and to maximise the publicity and exposure of these two iconic sporting occasions, which will both be broadcast live on ITV1, we have made some changes to our usual schedule.

“We are grateful to our partners at ITV and our generous sponsors, Betfred, for their help in facilitating the move, and we can’t wait for what is sure to be a great afternoon for British sport.”

Epsom Derby 2023: How to follow

Rupert Bell and Lizzie Kelly will have live commentary of The Epsom Derby at 1.30pm on talkSPORT.

There will be further races and extended coverage from Epsom in Racing Live on talkSPORT 2 with Lee McKenzie and Emmet Kennedy.

There will also be a Saturday morning preview show at 10am with Bell and Kelly.

talkSPORT's coverage of The Derby will be followed by live commentary of the FA Cup final at Wembley.

Adrian Durham will serve as your presenter and commentary will come from Jim Proudfoot, former Republic of Ireland midfielder Andy Townsend and ex-England defender Micky Gray.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.