The much-anticipated 149th edition of the Kentucky Derby has witnessed a major setback as the leading horse and heavy favorite Forte has been forced out of the race due to a bruised right front foot. The Churchill Downs management team made the announcement after its Saturday morning workout. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission state veterinarian acted on the decision and scratched the Todd Pletcher-trained horse. The scratch came as a major shock to the audience as Forte was the 3-1 morning line favorite to win the first leg of the Triple Crown. The horse, who had Irad Ortiz Jr. as its rider, was expected to win the race as he had proven his mettle in the previous races. Forte's exit means that the number of horses in the race has been reduced to 18, a significant drop from the initial field of 23. This marks the first time since 1936 that five horses have been scratched from the Derby. The legendary race is set to air in the US on NBC, Peacock, the NBC website, and its app with coverage of all of Saturday's races starting at midday, with the iconic race itself starting at 6:57 pm ET.