This years Melbourne Cup Carnival will be run without crowds after the VRC conceded to the fact on Sunday despite there being optimism this week.
The Victoria Racing Club had been working closely with the government to outline a plan to run the carnival with limited crowds using a COVID-19 plan however the club has conceded that none of this will be possible with the carnival starting this weekend.
“While we are very disappointed not to be able to welcome our members and racegoers to cup week, we understand the government’s commitment to keeping our community safe. We also recognise the need for certainty and clarity for our patrons, being only six days out from Derby Day,”
“We are still in discussions regarding the potential return to the track for a small number of owners, as is currently permitted in regional Victoria.” VRC Chairman Amanda Elliott said in a statement.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival will kick off on Saturday October 31st at Flemington where it is Derby Day with Melbourne Cup day to be run on Tuesday 3rd November, followed by Oaks Day on Thursday 5th and Stakes day on Saturday 7th.
