The winning jockey in the Kentucky Derby typically earns about 10% of the winning purse. For the 2025 Kentucky Derby, the total purse was $5 million, with the winner's share being $3.1 million. The winning jockey, Jose Alvarado in 2025, earned approximately $310,000 from this victory

. This 10% share is standard, with the remaining purse typically split as 80% to the horse's owners and 10% to the trainer. Jockeys also receive a guaranteed riding fee (at least $500) for participating, but the major earnings come from prize money shares when they win or place high

. It is worth noting that the jockey's actual take-home pay may be reduced by payments to their agent, valet, and taxes, which can total around 30% of their earnings

. Still, the amount is significantly higher than the payouts for jockeys finishing second or third, who earn about $50,000 and $25,000 respectively