Churchill Downs partners with SAP as official signature partner of the Kentucky Derby

Churchill Downs Incorporated has forged a multi-year partnership with SAP America, designating SAP as an official signature partner of Churchill Downs Racetrack.

SAP will serve as the first official technology partner for Churchill Downs Racetrack, the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. The collaboration includes naming rights for the SAP Starting Gate Suites, a collection of suites and the presenting partnership of the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs mobile applications.

Bill Mudd, CDI President and COO, stated: “We are thrilled to welcome SAP as a signature partner of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. SAP is a tremendous global brand that supports our vision to innovate and fuel growth across our businesses. We are excited to have SAP join our iconic brand at the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May.”

Lloyd Adams, SAP America President, added: “This partnership is a great opportunity for SAP to collaborate with one of the most storied sporting events in the world, the Kentucky Derby. We are proud to work with partners who share our commitment to innovation and are excited to help CDI leverage SAP's expertise and technology to support the growth of their company."

The agreement follows Churchill Downs Incorporated's collaboration with Sports Illustrated, securing naming rights for Club SI, a luxury dining experience at the Kentucky Derby.

Club SI, set to debut during Derby Week on 4 May 2024, will offer guests an upscale equine-focused dining experience, featuring views of the new Paddock and Paddock Runway.

This initiative is part of CDI's $200m renovations leading up to the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.

Furthermore, Churchill Downs Incorporated recently unveiled Derby City Gaming Downtown, a Kentucky Derby-themed gaming facility featuring Historical Racing Machines (HRMs), a race and sportsbook and a Kentucky Derby Gift Shop. The venue, which opened to the public, marks CDI's sixth location in Kentucky to host HRMs, contributing over 150 permanent jobs to the local economy.