With a staggering thirteen runners projected between them, local powerhouse Ciaron Maher and international master Joseph O'Brien are poised to control half of the 2026 Melbourne Cup field. Maher is aiming for a record-breaking eight starters in Australia's ten million dollar feature, while O'Brien brings five elite stayers down under for the November third clash at Flemington. As national pride takes centre stage, local trainers look to defend home turf against the raiding Irish contingent.
What the Deal Is
The 2026 Melbourne Cup is shaping into a historic showdown between domestic stables and international challengers. Ciaron Maher is on track to saddle up a record eight runners in the Flemington feature, surpassing Robert Hickmott's previous benchmark of six set in 2013. His squad features Geelong Cup winner Point of Law alongside Saint George, Juja Kibo, Middle Earth, Mr Monaco, Shockletz, Royal Supremacy, and Zahrann, with Kings Valley also contending for a start.
The Key Details
Point of Law currently leads betting markets as the six-dollar favourite after a dominant performance in the Geelong Cup. Meanwhile, Juja Kibo cemented his place in the field by winning the Moonee Valley Gold Cup, earning a one-and-a-half kilogram penalty that brings his allocated weight to fifty-five kilograms. Irish trainer Joseph O'Brien counters with five contenders, including last year's runner-up Goodie Two Shoes, Defiantly, Sons and Lovers, Trustyourinstinct, and James J Braddock.
- Ballot Exemption
- A golden ticket race win that guarantees a horse a start in the final twenty-four-horse Melbourne Cup field.
- Handicap Weight
- The specific weight assigned to each horse by racing handicappers to ensure a fair and competitive race.
Why It Happened
The massive influx of runners stems from targeted campaigns leveraging Victoria's premier races and golden ticket ballot exemptions. Maher purchased Point of Law from the royal stable of King Charles III after its victory in the Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket in July. O'Brien, who previously claimed the Cup with Rekindling in 2017 and Twilight Payment in 2020, brings seasoned northern hemisphere depth. At the same time, top trainer Chris Waller opted to withdraw contenders like Aeliana and Birdman to protect their development, clearing further room in the order of entry.
What It Means for Both Clubs
With Maher and O'Brien accounting for thirteen potential runners—more than half the final twenty-four—tactical control of the race will heavily hinge on their respective stables. Australian trainers have successfully claimed the past five Melbourne Cups, but the international challenge remains formidable. Maher highlighted the fierce competitive spirit surrounding the event:
We don't want it going overseas. We want it staying here.
Reactions and What Comes Next
Racing stakeholders are closely monitoring barrier draws and final acceptances following the conclusion of Derby Day fixtures. Jockeys are locking in their rides, though Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Jamie Melham will miss Derby Day due to a suspended ban before returning to the saddle on Melbourne Cup Day. Final acceptances and veterinary inspections will officially lock in the twenty-four runners lining up at Flemington.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many runners is Ciaron Maher preparing for the 2026 Melbourne Cup?
Ciaron Maher is on track to have eight runners in the final field, breaking the previous record of six starters set by Robert Hickmott in 2013.
Who is the favourite for the 2026 Melbourne Cup?
Geelong Cup winner Point of Law leads betting markets as the early six-dollar favourite.
How many horses is Joseph O'Brien entering?
Irish trainer Joseph O'Brien has five horses positioned to run, including Defiantly and last year's runner-up Goodie Two Shoes.
When and where is the Melbourne Cup held?
The ten million dollar race takes place on Tuesday, November third, at Flemington Racecourse.