The Derby 2018: what you need to know about the big meeting at Epsom

What makes The Derby special?

The Investec Derby is one of the biggest and most prestigious global races. Dating from 1780, it is also one of the oldest races and, with £850,650 going to the winner, one of the most valuable.

The Derby features the sport's top three-year-olds running over 1m4f at the famous Epsom racecourse. It is open to colts and fillies but typically only features the former, with the top fillies facing off a day earlier in the equally prestigious Oaks.

Investec Derby card and betting

Last year’s Derby winner was outsider Wings Of Eagles, a 40-1 shot, who was ridden by Padraig Beggy and trained by Aidan O’Brien.

Schedule and key races

The Derby meeting is a two-day event, running on Friday, June 1, and Saturday, June 2, at Epsom in Surrey.

Ladies' Day takes place on the Friday and features The Oaks and the Coronation Cup, both Group 1s, while Saturday features the Group 3 Princess Elizabeth Stakes, the Diomed Stakes and, of course, The Derby itself.

Who are the key Derby runners?

Saxon Warrior is the hot favourite for The Derby having won the Qipco 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket. Aidan O’Brien’s three-year-old is unbeaten in four runs and looks the worthy market leader.

Second-favourite is Roaring Lion, who was a convincing winner of the Dante Stakes at York, while Young Rascal is also prominent in the betting after his Chester Vase win.

Saxon Warrior stormed to victory in the 2,000 GuineasCredit: Mark Cranham

When and where can I watch it?

The Derby has a scheduled off time of 4.30pm. It will be broadcast live on ITV and Racing UK.

Racing on both days begins at 2pm, with the final race taking place at 5.50pm.

You can also follow all the action on racingpost.com or watch any race via the Racing Post app after betting £1 or more per race.

Can I still get tickets?

Tickets for some enclosures are available, although the premium Queen's Stand has sold out on both Friday and Saturday.

Visit the official website for details.

Who should I back?

The question everybody wants answered!

Have a look at the card and check out our free bet offers to start with, and make sure you keep checking the Racing Post website, mobile app and newspaper for all our expert betting advice and news in the run-up to the big meeting.

Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com