Founder and CEO of Barstool Sports, Dave Portnoy, got a snap with the Lexus Melbourne Cup at Saratoga.

Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour shines in New York

10 June 2025 • Written by VRC

The Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour has wrapped up a memorable and action-packed visit to New York, with the iconic 18-carat gold trophy making a lasting impression on racing fans, famous faces, and curious locals.

Adding a touch of Aussie spirit to the “Big Apple”, the People's Cup made a special stop at Old Mates, New York’s newest Australian-themed pub, where fans gathered to celebrate and have their photo taken with the Cup.

Friend of the VRC Georgina Burke and Australian Opals coach Sandy Brondello were among the familiar faces to join the festivities, sharing their pride and excitement for the global countdown to Australia’s most iconic race.

Old Mates co-owner Nicholas Stone said it was a thrill to host a leg of the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour.

“It is such an hour to partner with the Melbourne Cup Carnival and to have the 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup upstairs. We have about 100 Australian passionate racing fans upstairs getting their photo with the Cup,” Mr Stone said.

“It’s a terrific day and we’re honoured to host it here in downtown Manhattan in New York City at Old Mates Pub.”

Guests were treated with a special phantom race call from the voice of the Lexus Melbourne Cup, Matt Hill, who brought his trademark energy and insight.

The Lexus Melbourne Cup trophy also took in some of New York’s most iconic landmarks, including Rockerfeller Centre, Grand Central Station, and the Statue of Liberty.

The visit was anchored around the Grade II Belmont Gold Cup at Saratoga Racecourse, which was won by Parchment Party and connections now have a guaranteed place in the 2025 AUD$8.66 million Lexus Melbourne Cup (3200m).

VRC CEO Kylie Rogers said the New York leg of the Tour reflected the international standing of the Lexus Melbourne Cup.

“The Lexus Melbourne Cup is not only a symbol of sporting excellence, but also of cultural connection. Seeing how warmly received the Lexus Melbourne Cup was by fans, expats and sports stars alike was truly special,” Ms Rogers said.

“We are now excited to bring the Cup home to Australia, where it will continue its journey through communities across the country, celebrating the people and places that make the Lexus Melbourne Cup so iconic.”

The Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour returns to Australia to continue its journey, with upcoming stops in Griffith (NSW), Adelaide Gawler, and Strathalbyn (SA), as it builds towards the first Tuesday in November.

Next stop - Griffith, NSW - Thursday 19 June.

For more information about the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour, click here.