Lexus Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Ciaron Maher has nominated 13 horses, headlined by Middle Earth, last year’s placegetter Okita Soushi and new addition to the stable Zardozi who finished fourth.
A total of eight countries are represented among the nominations including six international with horses from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Ireland, England, France, Germany, and the United States.
Two-time Lexus Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Joseph O’Brien has nominated two horses, led by the now Australian-owned Al Riffa who will be following in the footsteps of Lexus Melbourne Cup winners Rekindling (2017) and Twilight Payment (2020).
Fellow Irish trainer, Willie Mullins has signalled his intention to travel to Flemington for the third consecutive year with Absurde and Hipop De Loire.
Further opportunities for horses and connections to receive ballot exemption at Flemington include the Group 3 Lexus Archer Stakes (2500m) on Crown Makybe Diva Stakes Day on Saturday 13 September and the Group 3 Lexus Bart Cummings (2500m) on TAB Turnbull Stakes Day. Outside of Flemington, the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) and Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) offer ballot exemption.
VRC Chief Racing Officer Leigh Jordon said he was pleased with the nominations for this year’s Cup.
“The Lexus Melbourne Cup continues to capture the imagination of trainers and owners both here in Australia and around the world, and this year’s nominations reflect that global appeal,” Mr Jordon said.
“The mix of elite homegrown horses, seasoned internationals and promising newcomers makes this year’s Lexus Melbourne Cup an exciting build up for racing fans.”
The 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival begins with Victoria Derby Day on Saturday 1 November, followed by Lexus Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday 4 November, VRC Crown Oaks Day on Thursday 6 November and TAB Champions Stakes Day on Saturday 8 November. For more information and to purchase tickets visit vrc.com.au.
