Simone Biles Makes a Bold Statement at the 2025 Kentucky Derby

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles turned heads at the Kentucky Derby, arriving at Churchill Downs with husband Jonathan Owens in matching lilac outfits. Biles wore a strapless mini dress adorned with rhinestones, paired with a dramatic fascinator, while Owens complemented her look with a lilac jacket and rhinestone-studded hat.

Their fashion sparked mixed reactions online—some praised the style as “classy and stunning,” while others criticized Biles’ dress as too short or not fitting the event’s traditional tone.

Beyond fashion, Biles played a ceremonial role, delivering the iconic “Riders up!” call with confidence. Her presence brought a fresh energy to the historic event, just days after being named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people of 2025.

Biles’ appearance at the Derby blended high style with cultural impact, showing she remains a powerful figure both on and off the field.