Kentucky Derby: Brian Hernandez Jr. tests positive for COVID-19
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Jockey Brian Hernandez Jr., who was scheduled to ride Art Collector in the Kentucky Derby on Saturday before the colt was declared from consideration because of a minor injury, took off his mounts Tuesday at Churchill Downs after testing positive for COVID-19.
Hernandez said from his Louisville home that he tested positive on Monday, but that he also tested positive for the virus antibodies on Tuesday.
“Now we’re waiting to hear from the health department as to what that means,” said Hernandez, 34. “We’ve been informed that I’m not contagious, but I don’t know whether that means I can ride this week.”
Art Collector was declared from the Derby on Tuesday morning, rendering the decision as to whether Hernandez can still ride somewhat moot. His upcoming mounts include Crazy Beautiful in the Pocahontas on Thursday and two stakes mounts on the Kentucky Oaks card Friday.
