Donna Brothers is stepping away from NBC’s Kentucky Derby coverage after 26 races, with her final on-horseback appearance slated for 2026. Her retirement marks a major transition for NBC’s Derby team and for fans who have followed her interviews and insights for years.[1][2][5]
What this means for coverage
- NBC will continue Derby coverage with a new or rotated on-field reporter to fill the void, while paying tribute to Brothers’ long tenure.[2][1]
- Brothers’ departure follows a 26-year run, including iconic post-race interviews and memorable moments, such as her coverage of past Derby winners and the sport’s evolving media landscape.[5][2]
Recent coverage and tributes
- NBC and industry outlets have highlighted her contributions and bid her a fitting farewell, noting the impact of her experience and knowledge on the broadcast.[1][5]
- Public reactions emphasize her pioneering role as a woman in sports broadcasting and her deep understanding of horse racing.[2]
If you’d like, I can pull up and summarize specific tributes or compile a quick timeline of her Derby coverage highlights with citations.
Sources
Donna Brothers has been a key figure in NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage since 2001. She interviews trainers, owners and winning jockeys, capturing emotional moments. Saturday marks her final Run for...
www.sfchronicle.comAfter giving her best on the track and on the mic, NBC sends off Donna Brothers in style after over two decades of horse racing coverage.
www.nbcsports.comDonna Brothers is a former jockey who won over 1,100 horse races and now covers horse racing and other equestrian sports for NBC Sports/NBCSN
thefamousinfo.comHorse Racing Reporter
www.nbcsports.comDonna Brothers, the former champion jockey who joined NBC Sports in 2000, said this week that Saturday’s Kentucky Derby will be her last on horseback for the network.
www.sportsbusinessjournal.comMarty McGee gets all the answers from Donna Brothers, horse-backing reporter for NBC Sports.
www.drf.comI was fortunate to set up a phone interview with Donna Barton Brothers that I had looked forward to for a long time. I hoped to have a 15 to 20 minute call with her, and had a bunch of questions ready.
pastthewire.com