The Ortiz Brothers Shared An Incredible Moment After Epic Kentucky Derby Finish

The 2026 Kentucky Derby came down to the finish on Saturday afternoon.

Golden Tempo took home the win at Churchill Downs on Saturday afternoon, narrowly beating out the pre-race favorite, Renegade, who came in second place. It was a photo finish in Louisville, Kentucky.

Two brothers were at the finish line, too.

Jose Ortiz was on Golden Tempo, which won the race, while his brother, Irad Ortiz, finished in second place, riding on Renegade. It was Jose Ortiz's first Kentucky Derby win.

Immediately following the race, the Ortiz brothers shared an embrace on top of their horses, congratulating one another on their first and second place finishes, respectively.

It was quite the moment.

Fans loved brotherly moment at Kentucky Derby

Fans loved the epic moment between the two brothers.

"It's incredible for Irad to have the wherewithal to know that was his brother that beat him on the line and grab his arm after running a race in an 18 horse field of pure chaos," one fan wrote.

"Love how filthy muddy Golden Tempo is, from dead last run to the 🌹 s, horse is a late closer like no other… 💥 but Bros Ortiz, heartwarming stuff!" one added.

"This is kinda surreal and so beautiful. Still slack jawed… 2 brothers celebrate, while a Female trainer. Shatters a huge glass ceiling w/her astounding horse. Is there anything better, folks?" one added.

"Is is likely historical that the jockey that won the Kentucky Oaks also won the Kentucky Derby. I am looking for Jose Ortiz to be an Eclipse Award candidate this year," one shared.

"What a great capture! Bravo to the photographer, the jockey, the horse, the owner, I love a good comeback story," another added.

It was a pretty special moment at the Kentucky Derby on Saturday afternoon, that's for sure.

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This story was originally published May 3, 2026 at 8:39 AM.