The 2026 Melbourne Cup final declarations are in, with a full complement of 24 seasoned stayers confirmed to contest the race that truly halts the nation.
Below, we break down all 24 horses in the Melbourne Cup Field, and you’ll find Video Form for every runner — including the internationals — to help you size up their chances.
One of the sharpest ways to spot the Melbourne Cup winner is to study each contender’s lead-up performances, and we’ve already done the legwork by sourcing those key races and listing them for you here.
If you’re having a bet on the Melbourne Cup, compare bookmakers and offers via our guide to Australia’s betting sites before you place a wager.
Melbourne Cup today: View the 2026 Melbourne Cup field, odds and tips, plus race time and broadcast details.
Jump to a horse
- 1. Sons And Lovers
- 2. Trustyourinstinct
- 3. Knight’s Choice
- 4. Middle Earth
- 5. Vauban
- 6. Enfjaar
- 7. Royal Supremacy
- 8. Wine Dark Sea
- 9. Asterix
- 10. Goodie Two Shoes
- 11. Juja Kibo
- 12. Hopewell Rock
- 13. Onesmoothoperator
- 14. Soul Of Spain
- 15. Zahrann
- 16. So You Are
- 17. Future History
- 18. James J Braddock
- 19. Kizlyar
- 20. Point Of Law
- 21. Strictly Business
- 22. Mr Monaco
- 23. Zakouma
- 24. Shockletz
1. Sons And Lovers
| Win odds: | $26 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Study Of Man x So In Love |
| Trainer: | Joseph O’Brien |
| Jockey: | Dylan Browne McMonagle |
| Weight: | 57.5kg |
| Barrier: | 3 |
| Career Stats: | 19: 4-2-5 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1400m/3000m |
| Career Best Win: | Red Sea Turf, February 14 2026, Riyadh, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 16: 3-2-4 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 3: 1-0-1 |
At a glance: Class is going to carry him a long way, he runs the trip…just not 100% sold on him being a legitimate top weight.
Key replay
Red Sea Turf (3200m), February 14 2026, Riyadh, Good Surface
I thought this win was tremendous. He has shown it afterwards but here, he was there to be beaten but he dug in late and on the line was safely holding his rivals in the run to the line. That’s the positive. The negative? The subsequent form. Just one win from 42 subsequent runs. The subsequent form stinks.
Tough! 💪
SONS AND LOVERS for @JosephOBrien2 guts out the win in the G3 Red Sea Turf Handicap. @TheSaudiCup pic.twitter.com/6HpemmgviF
— World Horse Racing (@WHR) February 14, 2026
Final verdict: I hadn’t done much on him prior to this preview. When watching that win at Riyadh, I thought he would be a serious chance. But when you break down the form…it just turns me off him.
2. Trustyourinstinct
| Win odds: | $10 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Churchill x Gussy Goose |
| Trainer: | Joseph O’Brien |
| Jockey: | James McDonald |
| Weight: | 57kg |
| Barrier: | 18 |
| Career Stats: | 25: 9-6-3 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1800m/3200m |
| Career Best Win: | Curragh Cup, July 19 2026, Curragh, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 14: 6-4-1 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 11: 3-2-2 |
At a glance: It’s hard to find a negative for him. If there was a query…is it two miles at this level?
Key replay
Curragh Cup (2816m), July 19 2026, Curragh, Good Surface
Gave his rivals a start and a beating in such an impressive performance. But, it’s another form race where the subsequent form has been terrible, with five subsequent runs for no wins. But, keep in mind the stable has won this race four times now. Three previous occasions, twice the winner has gone on to win the Melbourne Cup.
From last to first! 🟢🟡
Trustyourinstinct wins the Curragh Cup for @JosephOBrien2 and Declan McDonogh 🏆@1xbet_ireland | @curraghrace pic.twitter.com/e36rP6ZyxT
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) July 19, 2026
Final verdict: As I said before, I am just not 100% sold on him running two miles at the elite level. He has won over the trip before, but that was over the jumps and beat a bunch of camels. Handles all conditions, he has change up speed and has class. He does have to be respected but I couldn’t back him at single figures.
3. Knight’s Choice
| Win odds: | $51 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Extreme Choice x Midnight Pearl |
| Trainer: | John Symons & Sheila Laxon |
| Jockey: | Robbie Dolan |
| Weight: | 56.5kg |
| Barrier: | 2 |
| Career Stats: | 31: 6-3-3 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1600m/3200m |
| Career Best Win: | Melbourne Cup, November 9 2024, Flemington, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 19: 5-1-2 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 12: 1-2-1 |
At a glance: DNP in the Caulfield Cup. Proven performer and prior form was excellent.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
On a day where it was up/in, just forgive and forget he went around. He was back near last in the run and was lucky to avoid the fall. Dolan was kind to him late.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: I think he’s sneaky flying this horse, the 2024 Cup winner. Ticking along beautifully and just forget his Caulfield Cup run. Back, copped some interference from the fall, he was never a factor. He will do no work from the barrier, be put to sleep and if the gaps arrive, gee I think he’ll run a bold race. A must include in all exotics and can be backed each way as well.
4. Middle Earth
| Win odds: | $18 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Roaring Lion x Roheryn |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Mark Zahra |
| Weight: | 56.5kg |
| Barrier: | 1 |
| Career Stats: | 26: 6-2-3 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2000m/2800m |
| Career Best Win: | Chairman’s Handicap, May 16 2026, Doomben, Soft Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 17: 4-1-2 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 8: 2-0-1 |
| Synthetic Track Stats: | 1: 0-1-0 |
At a glance: He’s a top 3/4 seed for me in terms of the Ciaron Maher contingent.
Key replay
Cox Plate (2040m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
Backing up from the Caulfield Cup, gee I loved the way he closed off despite never being a winning threat. Late splits were very good and a lovely tick over run for the first Tuesday in November.
What a ride! Cosmic Crusader and Willie Pike come from way back to win the 2026 Ladbrokes Cox Plate for trainer Andrea Leek! pic.twitter.com/lUHQPnbQMu
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: He ran so well in the race last year and looks as though he has been set for one race in 2026 – this one. Caulfield Cup was good, loved his finale in the Cox Plate, 3200m is ideal and gets one of the best big race riders in Mark Zahra to steer. I think he’ll run a beauty.
5. Vauban
| Win odds: | $61 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Galiway x Waldfest |
| Trainer: | Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott |
| Jockey: | Jordan Childs |
| Weight: | 56.5kg |
| Barrier: | 22 |
| Career Stats: | 33: 10-5-6 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2000m/3400m |
| Career Best Win: | Lonsdale Cup, August 23 2024, York, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 18: 4-2-3 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 15: 6-3-3 |
At a glance: Ran super in the Cup last year. Fourth time lucky? I say no, but a top ten chance.
Key replay
Geelong Cup (2400m), October 21 2026, Geelong, Good Surface
He was a pass mark. First up in a brutally run race, he was entitled to run near last but he kept on and was far from disgraced in defeat and actually kept chipping away to/through the line.
Geelong Cup | Point Of Law
The international visitors run 1-2-3 in the Geelong Cup! At only his 5th career start, Point Of Law takes out the Group 3 feature! 💪🏻 @cmaherracing
📺 Ch. 78/68, Foxtel 529, Kayo or via our app
REPLAYS: https://t.co/HEhdpozFmy pic.twitter.com/BqedLxfl7O— Racing.com (@Racing) October 21, 2026
Final verdict: Fourth crack in the Melbourne Cup. I’d be somewhat surprised if he won, but he is a great top ten chance I say with good upside to come.
6. Enfjaar
| Win odds: | $23 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Lope De Vega x Tesoro |
| Trainer: | Roger Varian |
| Jockey: | Ray Dawson |
| Weight: | 56kg |
| Barrier: | 8 |
| Career Stats: | 17: 5-2-3 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1400m/2400m |
| Career Best Win: | Glorious Stakes, August 1 2026, Goodwood, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 11: 1-2-3 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 3: 2-0-0 |
| Synthetic Track Stats: | 3: 2-0-0 |
At a glance: Just peaked on the Caulfield Cup. Fitter…just 3200m is the knock.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
I thought his effort was full of merit. He survived the on speed mid race burn and battled away really well in defeat when third.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: Just not 100% sold on him running two miles and although he was good in the Caulfield Cup, which is usually THE right form reference, I just feel that he may be looking for air late in the race. I am against him.
7. Royal Supremacy
| Win odds: | $61 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Make Believe x Adelasia |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Ben Allen |
| Weight: | 56kg |
| Barrier: | 21 |
| Career Stats: | 22: 7-3-4 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1400m/2400m |
| Career Best Win: | Q22, June 13 2026, Eagle Farm, Heavy Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 9: 3-2-1 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 12: 3-1-3 |
| Synthetic Track Stats: | 1: 1-0-0 |
At a glance: Horrendous ride in front in the Caulfield Cup. Too hit and miss for me to say he can be followed with confidence.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
I thought the ride from Jamie Spencer was average. Just went too slow in front and it forced those behind to make a mid race move, which he hated and he was a beaten horse a fair way out.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: He is one horse who I think is making up the numbers and just don’t see him measuring up.
8. Wine Dark Sea
| Win odds: | $41 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Ulysses x Ajwibah |
| Trainer: | Harry Charlton |
| Jockey: | Damian Lane |
| Weight: | 56kg |
| Barrier: | 23 |
| Career Stats: | 11: 4-2-0 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2250m/2650m |
| Career Best Win: | Geoffrey Freer, August 15 2026, Newbury, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 7: 3-2-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 1: 0-0-0 |
| Synthetic Track Stats: | 3: 1-0-0 |
At a glance: Somewhat of a forgive in the Caulfield Cup but he didn’t do enough.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
He was doing work from the wide gate, eventually landed on speed, but as soon as the anchor came out, the mid race from the back happened and he just didn’t have enough petrol tickets.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: He did start $8 in the Caulfield Cup so from an SP perspective, he does command respect in that regard, but I just thought he didn’t do enough to say he can win a Melbourne Cup. He can go through to the keeper for mine.
9. Asterix
| Win odds: | $SP |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Tavistock x Mourasana |
| Trainer: | Chris Waller |
| Jockey: | Jye McNeil |
| Weight: | 55kg |
| Barrier: | 6 |
| Career Stats: | 33: 8-1-2 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1600m/2400m |
| Career Best Win: | Tatts Cup, June 27 2026, Eagle Farm, Soft Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 22: 5-1-2 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 11: 3-0-0 |
At a glance: Thought he was sneaky good in the Caulfield Cup…top ten chance.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
He copped a slight check from the fall, lucky to stay on his feet, but he balanced up and through the line he was really good, especially with eyes towards the first Tuesday in November.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: I think he’s sneaky flying this horse. Good hidden run in the Caulfield Cup and I don’t think 3200m will be an issue. But…55kg is a big impost for a horse with his CV, which isn’t top shelf. If he had 50-51kg, a knockout winning hope at a massive price. Top ten at best for me.
10. Goodie Two Shoes
| Win odds: | $23 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Fastnet Rock x Fits Like A Glove |
| Trainer: | Joseph O’Brien |
| Jockey: | Wayne Lordan |
| Weight: | 55kg |
| Barrier: | 19 |
| Career Stats: | 23: 8-2-5 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1800m/3400m |
| Career Best Win: | Lillie Langtry, August 1 2026, Goodwood, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 10: 6-1-1 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 13: 2-1-4 |
At a glance: Runner up in the race last year and is a top ten prospect.
Key replay
2025 Melbourne Cup (3200m), November 4 2025, Flemington, Good Surface
She was enormous in defeat, trying her guts out from the wide gate and bumped into Half Yours, who had the prep of a lifetime to score.
HALF YOURS WINS THE MELBOURNE CUP! 🇦🇺🏆 pic.twitter.com/dZtNSO9Z4x
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) November 4, 2025
Final verdict: She goes up 4.5kg from last year, which is quite hefty for a mare who hasn’t done a great deal since, but did win the Lillie Langtry at Goodwood and will run the 3200m no issue. Top ten prospect IMO.
11. Juja Kibo
| Win odds: | $14 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Belardo x Na Zdorovie |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Sam Clipperton |
| Weight: | 55kg |
| Barrier: | 14 |
| Career Stats: | 20: 6-3-6 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1800m/2500m |
| Career Best Win: | The Metropolitan, October 3 2026, Randwick, Soft Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 12: 2-3-3 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 8: 4-0-3 |
At a glance: He is absolutely humming this horse and if rain arrives, he’s right in the mix.
Key replay
Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
Wide/Back but it mattered not for him, as he got better as the race went on, finishing best to win and win very well, carrying 58kg in the process.
JUJA KIBO STORMS OVER THE TOP 💥
Ciaron Maher gets the trifecta in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup and has another Melbourne Cup runner as Sam Clipperton gets his first winner at Flemington!@cmaherracing pic.twitter.com/Auk1AngNqT
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: He has been flying all prep and has come of age with two strong wins on the bounce. I think he needs juice in the track to be considered a serious winning chance. If it does arrive, I could back him to win.
12. Hopewell Rock
| Win odds: | $6.00 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | New Bay x Tidewalker |
| Trainer: | George Boughey |
| Jockey: | Zac Lloyd |
| Weight: | 54.5kg |
| Barrier: | 15 |
| Career Stats: | 10: 3-3-2 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1600m/2800m |
| Career Best Win: | Handicap, August 1 2026, Goodwood, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 5: 2-0-2 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 5: 1-3-0 |
At a glance: Bit of stable confidence about this horse and his chances…he commands respect.
Key replay
Ebor Handicap (2786m), August 22 2026, York, Soft Surface
He is the horse with the mustard sleeves and mustard cap. Drove hard late between runners and surged, but just couldn’t quite get there. But, again, another race where the subsequent form has been horrendous with just one winner from 24 starts, the one win being a maiden hurdle at Listowel in Ireland.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: He does look a progressive stayer and I am a big fan of George Boughey as a trainer. I think the two miles will be fine and will keep chipping away. The only knock is the form out of the Ebor. It’s been horrendous. I’d want $21+ before betting on him.
13. Onesmoothoperator
| Win odds: | $71 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Dialed In x Sueno D’Oro |
| Trainer: | Tim Fitzsimmons |
| Jockey: | Declan Bates |
| Weight: | 54.5kg |
| Barrier: | 13 |
| Career Stats: | 51: 6-11-6 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2050m/3300m |
| Career Best Win: | Moonee Valley Cup, October 24 2025, Moonee Valley, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 19: 2-0-3 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 4: 0-1-0 |
| Synthetic Track Stats: | 28: 4-10-3 |
At a glance: If he brought his best, a legitimate chance…but his better days are behind him.
Key replay
Geelong Cup (2400m), October 21 2026, Geelong, Good Surface
I thought his run was poor. He got back and yes, it was a fast run race, but he was entitled to finish his race off better and just whacked in the run to the line.
Geelong Cup | Point Of Law
The international visitors run 1-2-3 in the Geelong Cup! At only his 5th career start, Point Of Law takes out the Group 3 feature! 💪🏻 @cmaherracing
📺 Ch. 78/68, Foxtel 529, Kayo or via our app
REPLAYS: https://t.co/HEhdpozFmy pic.twitter.com/BqedLxfl7O— Racing.com (@Racing) October 21, 2026
Final verdict: His best is certainly good enough to be dangerous and had been trialling like he was right on track, but on race day, he has been awful and I cannot entertain him as a threat.
14. Soul Of Spain
| Win odds: | $20 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Phoenix Of Spain x Aimhirgin Lass |
| Trainer: | Chris Waller |
| Jockey: | Tommy Berry |
| Weight: | 54.5kg |
| Barrier: | 5 |
| Career Stats: | 26: 5-5-6 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1700m/3300m |
| Career Best Win: | Newcastle Cup, September 19 2025, Caulfield, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 16: 4-3-3 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 10: 1-2-3 |
At a glance: Sneaky good in the Caulfield Cup and with a soft run in transit, can finish top ten.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
I thought his run was full of merit. Tyler Schiller made the mid race move to inject speed into the race and was entitled to knock right up but he only felt the pinch late in a really good effort.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: I think he’s sneaky flying this horse and I think will be better off being exposed late vs taking off mid race. Could I see him winning? No, but for exotics, he must be included. He’s going really well.
15. Zahrann
| Win odds: | $31 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Night Of Thunder x Zannda |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Ben Melham |
| Weight: | 54.5kg |
| Barrier: | 11 |
| Career Stats: | 12: 4-2-1 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2000m/2400m |
| Career Best Win: | Naturalism Stakes, September 19 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 8: 4-2-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 4: 0-0-1 |
At a glance: Indifferent Caulfield Cup but in the right stable and has a turn of foot.
Key replay
Caulfield Cup (2400m), October 17 2026, Caulfield, Good Surface
There are two ways you can look at this replay. You can say he was unlucky, should have finished closer after getting held up. Or, you can say he was out in time to finish his race off and just whacked to the line.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: I don’t want to pen him because he does have that vibe to me of a horse who could just explode here. I think the Caulfield Cup run was a forgive/forget. Likewise the Turnbull and he spanked them in the Naturalism. I think he’s right in contention.
16. So You Are
| Win odds: | $8.50 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | So You Think x Tornado Gal |
| Trainer: | Bjorn Baker |
| Jockey: | Rachel King |
| Weight: | 54kg |
| Barrier: | 7 |
| Career Stats: | 28: 8-6-6 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1850m/2600m |
| Career Best Win: | St Leger Stakes, October 17 2026, Randwick, Soft Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 12: 4-1-4 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 16: 4-5-2 |
At a glance: Just an absolute line finder who busts his gut each time he steps out and would be a great story if he won.
Key replay
Bendigo Cup (2400m), October 28 2026, Bendigo, Good Surface
Admittedly the pattern was in his corner but even allowing for that, gee he showed true grit to fend off his rivals and score. Compared to previous years, it was a strong edition of the Bendigo Cup so I say this form isn’t junk at all.
Congratulations to Kingswood for winning the Caulfield Cup! Half Yours, I hope you’re doing okay after that fall… pic.twitter.com/P44Rg7Rk0c
— HighTierContrail (Fatetato) Pui and Groove enjoyer (@Tatotatoing) October 17, 2026
Final verdict: I am not sold on him running two miles but he is the most genuine horse in the race, and I’d say is the most fit. He will run a great race…could I back him to win? No, but a great bet for top ten I say.
17. Future History
| Win odds: | $71 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Showcasing x Likelihood |
| Trainer: | Gregory Hickman |
| Jockey: | Jamie Melham |
| Weight: | 53.5kg |
| Barrier: | 12 |
| Career Stats: | 47: 10-6-6 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1800m/2800m |
| Career Best Win: | Bart Cummings, October 7 2023, Flemington, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 28: 5-4-5 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 18: 5-2-1 |
| Synthetic Track Stats: | 1: 0-0-0 |
At a glance: He is making up the numbers.
Key replay
Moonee Valley Cup (2500m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
Did early work from the wide gate and it told in the straight. That said, he didn’t exactly throw in the towel and kept chipping away in defeat.
JUJA KIBO STORMS OVER THE TOP 💥
Ciaron Maher gets the trifecta in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup and has another Melbourne Cup runner as Sam Clipperton gets his first winner at Flemington!@cmaherracing pic.twitter.com/Auk1AngNqT
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: I think he is one horse who is making up the numbers and deserves to be one of the rank outsiders. He’ll have his fans given Jamie Melham rides, who won the Cup last year on Half Yours, but this horse isn’t going well enough to trouble these.
18. James J Braddock
| Win odds: | $26 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Zarak x Burkina Faso |
| Trainer: | Joseph O’Brien |
| Jockey: | Craig Williams |
| Weight: | 53.5kg |
| Barrier: | 24 |
| Career Stats: | 7: 2-1-1 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1600m/2000m |
| Career Best Win: | Irish Derby Trial, May 10 2026, Leopardstown, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 4: 1-0-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 3: 1-1-1 |
At a glance: He looks a nice horse…just not sure he’s ready for the Melbourne Cup.
Key replay
Kilternan Stakes (2414m), September 12 2026, Leopardstown, Good Surface
I don’t think the sit/sprint suited him but I liked the way he kept chasing and finding the line in defeat behind Arabian Crown, who has since won the Canadian International at Woodbine, so a tick to the subsequent form.
A front-running masterclass 🟦🟦@godolphin runner Arabian Crown leads his rivals a merry dance under the perfect front-running ride from @the_doyler in the G3 Kilternan Stakes.@HKJC_Racing | @WorldPool pic.twitter.com/s71NtSGWfv
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) September 12, 2026
Final verdict: I am just not 100% sold on him being ready for two miles. I think he’s a really nice horse, form around him reads well…if he runs the two miles strongly, he’s a knockout hope. I’d rather just watch him than back him at this stage.
19. Kizlyar
| Win odds: | $41 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Make Believe x Kisanga |
| Trainer: | Joseph O’Brien |
| Jockey: | Beau Mertens |
| Weight: | 53.5kg |
| Barrier: | 20 |
| Career Stats: | 11: 3-2-2 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2800m/4000m |
| Career Best Win: | Handicap, June 16 2026, Royal Ascot, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 4: 2-1-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 7: 1-1-2 |
At a glance: He was awful in the Moonee Valley Cup…pass for me.
Key replay
Moonee Valley Cup (2500m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
He got ridden with intent, landing just off speed in the first few and was there to threaten at the top of the straight but he found nothing and was very poor.
JUJA KIBO STORMS OVER THE TOP 💥
Ciaron Maher gets the trifecta in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup and has another Melbourne Cup runner as Sam Clipperton gets his first winner at Flemington!@cmaherracing pic.twitter.com/Auk1AngNqT
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: It would be an all time form reversal if he was to win. He did nothing at Flemington so it’s a hard pass for me.
20. Point Of Law
| Win odds: | $7.00 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Frankel x Portfolio |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Ethan Brown |
| Weight: | 53kg |
| Barrier: | 9 |
| Career Stats: | 5: 3-1-0 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 2000m/2600m |
| Career Best Win: | Geelong Cup, October 21 2026, Geelong, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 5: 3-1-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 0: 0-0-0 |
At a glance: He either crumbles from the pressure of the day/race…or we are looking at a new staying star.
Key replay
Geelong Cup (2400m), October 21 2026, Geelong, Good Surface
This win…honestly, just no words. He had no right to win given how keen he was in the run and the tempo the race was run at, especially the last 800m. He was strong to the line despite doing plenty wrong and in terms of last start performances, it’s #1 for me.
Geelong Cup | Point Of Law
The international visitors run 1-2-3 in the Geelong Cup! At only his 5th career start, Point Of Law takes out the Group 3 feature! 💪🏻 @cmaherracing
📺 Ch. 78/68, Foxtel 529, Kayo or via our app
REPLAYS: https://t.co/HEhdpozFmy pic.twitter.com/BqedLxfl7O— Racing.com (@Racing) October 21, 2026
Final verdict: The win was just unbelievably freakish given what was mentioned above. He is like a teenage boy losing his V Plates…all the gear but no idea. Ability wise, he has lengths on this field. What brings him back is the fact he’s mentaly not there and could get spooked by the 90,000+ crowd at Flemington. He goes in everything re exotic betting.
21. Strictly Business
| Win odds: | $81 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Grunt x Tivoli Lass |
| Trainer: | Thomas Carberry |
| Jockey: | Dean Yendall |
| Weight: | 53kg |
| Barrier: | 4 |
| Career Stats: | 11: 2-2-0 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1400m/2500m |
| Career Best Win: | Victoria Oaks, November 6 2025, Flemington, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 9: 1-1-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 2: 1-1-0 |
At a glance: Another that is making up the numbers.
Key replay
Moonee Valley Cup (2500m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
Got back to near last in the run and was never a factor, failing to beat a runner home in what was a continuation of her prep s0 far, which has been terrible.
JUJA KIBO STORMS OVER THE TOP 💥
Ciaron Maher gets the trifecta in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup and has another Melbourne Cup runner as Sam Clipperton gets his first winner at Flemington!@cmaherracing pic.twitter.com/Auk1AngNqT
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: She was an unbelievabel story last year when winning the Oaks and did run second in the SA Derby earlier in the year…but she has been awful this time in and should be the rank outsider.
22. Mr Monaco
| Win odds: | $26 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Territories x Alle Stelle |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Jabez Johnstone |
| Weight: | 52.5kg |
| Barrier: | 16 |
| Career Stats: | 20: 6-2-2 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1400m/2500m |
| Career Best Win: | Bart Cummings, October 3 2026, Flemington, Heavy Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 14: 3-1-2 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 6: 3-1-0 |
At a glance: Has the C Maher sense of timing…just a slight query at 3200m.
Key replay
Moonee Valley Cup (2500m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
He was game in defeat when third. He gave the drag up to the first and second runners. He was entitled to knock up but stayed on really well in defeat.
JUJA KIBO STORMS OVER THE TOP 💥
Ciaron Maher gets the trifecta in the Moonee Valley Gold Cup and has another Melbourne Cup runner as Sam Clipperton gets his first winner at Flemington!@cmaherracing pic.twitter.com/Auk1AngNqT
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: He has turned a corner in recent times, winning the Bart Cummings and then was game in the Moonee Valley Cup. The knock on him is that he has run at 3200m before and failed. But, is he a better horse this time around? I say yes and the rider…he is one rider who will take no prisoners re trying to find a run, clear air and give his horse every chance.
23. Zakouma
| Win odds: | $31 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Crowded House x Dar Es Salaam |
| Trainer: | Grahame Begg |
| Jockey: | William Pike |
| Weight: | 52kg |
| Barrier: | 10 |
| Career Stats: | 18: 5-2-1 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1600m/2800m |
| Career Best Win: | Ramsden Stakes, May 16 2026, Flemington, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 12: 3-2-0 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 6: 2-0-1 |
At a glance: Thought he was sneaky flying…just no idea what to make of the Crystal Mile run, which was a barrier trial, but a poor barrier trial.
Key replay
Ramsden Stakes (2800m), May 16 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
What I liked about this win was that he got better as the race went on and while the others were tiring, he just kept grinding and was very strong to the line. But, like with some of the overseas raiders, the subsequent form has been complete junk.
Andrew Ramsden | Zakouma
Zakouma books his place in the great race on the first Tuesday in November 🏆 @Grahame_Begg‘s gelding continues his ascent through the grades 📈
📺 Ch. 78/68, Foxtel 529, Kayo or via our app
REPLAYS: https://t.co/ZIa4a02wC0 pic.twitter.com/O8HwH9vZ0M— Racing.com (@Racing) May 16, 2026
Final verdict: I was going to say a live chance the way he was coming along into the prep but the Crystal Mile…I just don’t get the run. He was awful, never a factor and yes, 1600m clearly short of 3200m, but still thought he should have done more. Top ten at absolute best.
24. Shockletz
| Win odds: | $10 |
|---|---|
| Breeding: | Shocking x Zelt |
| Trainer: | Ciaron Maher |
| Jockey: | Harry Coffey |
| Weight: | 51kg |
| Barrier: | 17 |
| Career Stats: | 20: 7-3-1 |
| Min/Max Distance Wins: | 1300m/2500m |
| Career Best Win: | Archer Stakes, September 12 2026, Flemington, Good Surface |
| Dry Turf Stats: | 12: 4-2-1 |
| Wet Track Stats: | 8: 3-1-0 |
At a glance: I think if she holds her form, she’s an each way moral.
Key replay
Tesio Stakes (2040m), October 24 2026, Flemington, Good Surface
Whereas Zakouma had a poor final lead/tune up run, Shockletz was outstanding here against the Mares, closing with purpose from off speed when second to Soverato, getting clear air late and was strong to/through the line.
Tesio Stakes | Soverato
Soverato wins the last! Chris Waller’s four-year-old staves off Shockletz, winning the Tesio Stakes well 👌
📺 Ch. 78/68, Foxtel 529, Kayo or via our app
REPLAYS: https://t.co/HEhdpozFmy pic.twitter.com/wIJ0aF25kY— Racing.com (@Racing) October 24, 2026
Final verdict: I think Ciaron Maher has her absolutely humming at present and her run in the Tesio last Saturday to tick her over…gee it was a lovely piece of work. I am very confident she’ll run 3200m, she gets 51kg on her back, handles all conditions…I’ll be shocked if she isn’t in the finish. Just think she only runs well.
Overall summary
The more I look at this race, the more I warm to Shockletz. Dominant in the Archer, great in the Herbert Power without luck and the tick over run in the Tesio was a beauty. Very confident she’ll run 3200m and with only 51kg on her back…I think she is an each way special. Point Of Law is the hype horse and understandably so given his Geelong Cup triumph. The way he won was that of a star. Pulled hard, keen on speed but put them away and was strong to the line in scoring. If he runs 3200m, I say he’s one of the hardest to beat. But, keep an eye on the mounting yard because he can be a bit not there mentally. Mr Monaco won a pretty awful edition of the Bart Cummings I thought to secure his spot here. But, the win was no fluke because he ran super last Saturday in the Moonee Valley Cup behind Juja Kibo. Another where 3200m is no issue, down in the weights…only runs well. Zahrann was a total forgive from the Caulfield Cup. To the eye, he was just fair late, but keep in mind he did get badly held up and lost momentum at a crucial stage. He was hard in the market there and does have the C Maher polish to say, he has to be respected.
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