The 2026 Cox Plate will be staged for the first time away from Moonee Valley with Flemington announced as having hosting rights.
This year’s Cox Plate will be the last run on the current Moonee Valley track before the course is closed to be rebuilt and reshaped.
Racing Victoria, in consultation with the Moonee Valley Racing Club, announced the decision on Wednesday after an Expression of Interest process.
The Melbourne Racing Club had also expressed interest in staging the Cox Plate, which would have been run following the Caulfield Cup Carnival.
The 2026 Cox Plate at Flemington will be held the week before the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
A nine-race card will be conducted, including the Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), which offers the winner a Golden Ticket into the Melbourne Cup.
Wagering, attendance, engagement and commercial implications of the venue transfer were key considerations for RV and MVRC in their decision making, with Flemington determined the track best placed to maximise attendance and turnover, whilst ensuring a contest befitting the race’s elite status.
Kylie Rogers, the Victoria Racing Club chief executive, said it was an honour for Flemington to be named to hold the 2026 Cox Plate.
“This will be an historic occasion, bringing tens of thousands of Australians together to enjoy the day,” Rogers said.
“We thank Racing Victoria, the Moonee Valley Racing Club and our commercial partners for their collaboration and can’t wait to see the collective vision for a Cox Plate at Flemington come to life.
“It sets the scene for an unforgettable spring at Flemington, where the world’s best come together.”
MVRC chief executive Michael Browell said the 2026 Cox Plate will be the first time the race has been staged away from Moonee Valley.
“The MVRC looks forward to partnering with the VRC to create an exceptional event for members of both clubs and racegoers as we showcase Australia’s Best Race at Flemington,” Browell said.
