The thundering hooves, the roar of the crowd, the breathless anticipation as the horses round the final turn—there’s nothing quite like the thrill of horse racing. For fans who can’t be at the track, having the right Horse Racing Directv Channel is the next best thing. Whether you’re a seasoned handicapper or a casual fan who tunes in for the Triple Crown, this guide will steer you to the exact channels you need, so you never miss a moment of the action.
Finding your go-to station is the first step to enjoying a day at the races from the comfort of your home. DirecTV offers a robust lineup for equestrian sports enthusiasts, from dedicated 24/7 networks to major sports channels that broadcast the most prestigious events of the year. Let’s break down where to find all the live races, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes coverage.
The Premier Channels for Horse Racing on DirecTV
When it comes to horse racing, a few key channels are essential for comprehensive coverage. From daily races at tracks across the country to the sport’s most iconic events, these are the channel numbers every fan should know.
FanDuel TV: The Heartbeat of Horse Racing
The primary destination for any serious horse racing fan on DirecTV is FanDuel TV, which you can find on Channel 602.
Formerly known as TVG (Television Games Network), this channel was rebranded to FanDuel TV and remains the definitive 24/7 network dedicated to horse racing. It offers live broadcasts from top tracks across the United States and around the world, including Australia and Japan. Beyond live races, FanDuel TV provides in-depth analysis, expert commentary, handicapping tips, and behind-the-scenes content that immerses you in the sport. To access this channel, you’ll typically need the DirecTV CHOICE™ package or above, or you can add the DIRECTV Sports Pack to your subscription.
According to equine broadcasting specialist Dr. Eleanor Vance, “A dedicated channel like FanDuel TV is invaluable. It provides the consistent, deep coverage that builds true expertise and allows fans to follow horses, trainers, and storylines throughout the season, not just on the big race days.”
FS1 & FS2: Your Home for Major Stakes Races
For extensive weekend coverage and many of the sport’s most significant events, Fox Sports channels are a must-watch.
- FS1 (Fox Sports 1): Channel 219
- FS2 (Fox Sports 2): Channel 618
These networks are instrumental in broadcasting premier racing series like “America’s Day at the Races.” They provide live coverage from prestigious tracks such as Saratoga and Belmont Park, offering viewers high-definition broadcasts of top-tier stakes races throughout the year. When a major race day is on the calendar, you can almost guarantee that FS1 or FS2 will be covering the action from the paddock to the winner’s circle.
A graphic displaying the FanDuel Racing logo next to its DirecTV channel number, helping users find the dedicated horse racing channel.
Network Television: The Crown Jewels of Racing
The most famous events in horse racing, known collectively as the Triple Crown, are broadcast on major network television, making them accessible to the widest possible audience.
- NBC: Home of the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.
- FOX: The broadcast home for the Belmont Stakes.
Unlike the cable channels, NBC and FOX are local stations. This means the specific channel number will vary depending on your geographical location. You can find your local NBC or FOX affiliate by checking the DirecTV guide. These networks provide extensive pre-race coverage, telling the stories behind the horses and jockeys, before delivering the live broadcast of these historic and thrilling races.
How to Watch the Biggest Horse Racing Events
Navigating the schedule for the sport’s biggest days is simple once you know where to look. Here’s a quick-reference guide to ensure you’re tuned to the right horse racing DirecTV channel for the main events.
The Triple Crown:
- Kentucky Derby: Tune into your local NBC station.
- Preakness Stakes: Watch the “Run for the Black-Eyed Susans” on your local NBC station.
- Belmont Stakes: Find the “Test of the Champion” on your local FOX station or FS1 (Channel 219).
Breeders’ Cup World Championships: This prestigious two-day event is often broadcast across the NBC family of networks. Check your local NBC listings as the event approaches for specific times and channels.
Major Summer Races (Saratoga, Del Mar): For premier meets like Saratoga, your go-to channels will be FS1 (Channel 219) and FS2 (Channel 618) for their “America’s Day at the Races” coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about watching horse racing on DirecTV.
What is the main horse racing channel on DirecTV?
The primary, dedicated channel for horse racing is FanDuel TV, located on Channel 602. It offers 24/7 coverage of live races, replays, and expert analysis from tracks around the world.
Can I watch the Kentucky Derby on DirecTV?
Yes, you can. The Kentucky Derby is broadcast live on NBC. To watch it on DirecTV, simply tune in to your local NBC affiliate channel on race day.
Is TVG still on DirecTV?
TVG was rebranded and is now known as FanDuel TV. You can find all the same great horse racing content you enjoyed on TVG on FanDuel TV, at the same location: Channel 602.
How can I watch international horse racing on DirecTV?
FanDuel TV (Channel 602) is the best place for international racing, regularly featuring live broadcasts from prominent tracks in Australia, Japan, and other parts of the world.
Do I need a special package for horse racing channels on DirecTV?
To get FanDuel TV (Channel 602), you will generally need the DIRECTV CHOICE™ package or a higher tier. Alternatively, it is included in the DIRECTV Sports Pack add-on for other packages. Channels like FS1, FS2, NBC, and FOX are included in most standard packages.
Your Ticket to the Track
With this guide in hand, you’re ready to dive into the exhilarating world of horse racing. From the daily races that fill the calendar to the unforgettable moments of the Triple Crown, DirecTV provides comprehensive access for every level of fan. By knowing the key channels—FanDuel TV on 602, FS1 on 219, FS2 on 618, and your local NBC and FOX affiliates—you can be sure you have the best seat in the house. So sit back, study the Daily Racing Form, and get ready for the call of “And they’re off!”
