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The Race That Stops a Nation: Melbourne Cup 2025 – What You Need to Know

It’s that time of year again. The first Tuesday in November has rolled around, and all of Australia seems to pause. Offices slow down, schools host sweeps, and millions tune in to watch the Melbourne Cup — a 3200-metre test of stamina, speed, and sheer heart that’s earned its nickname: “the race that stops a nation.”

In 2025, the 165th running of the Melbourne Cup is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and dramatic editions in recent memory. With international raiders eyeing the prized $8 million prize, local hopes clinging to glory, and a final field still under veterinary scrutiny, this year’s race is already making headlines before a single hoof hits the track.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about the Melbourne Cup 2025, from verified updates to expert insights, betting trends, and the stories behind the horses and jockeys who could make history at Flemington.

What’s Happening Right Now? The Latest on the 2025 Melbourne Cup

Final Field and Barrier Draw: A Mixed Bag of Fortune

The official Melbourne Cup 2025 field and barrier draw were confirmed in the lead-up to race day, with some standout moments already shaping the narrative.

According to ABC News, the final field features 24 horses — including top contenders from Japan, Ireland, France, and the UK — alongside a strong contingent of Australian-trained stayers.

One of the biggest talking points? Half Yours, the lone Australian hope co-trained by Tony and Calvin McEvoy, drew barrier eight. That’s considered a prime position — not too close to the rail, not too wide — giving jockey James McDonald room to find a rhythm and avoid early congestion.

“Barrier eight is perfect,” said Calvin McEvoy in an interview with The Age. “We’ve got the Caulfield Cup win under our belt, and now we’re aiming for the double. Forecast rain would be the cherry on top — it suits his style.”

Rain is indeed a factor. With showers predicted on race morning, the track could turn soft or heavy — conditions that often level the playing field and favour horses with proven wet-track form.

Meanwhile, international favourite Al Riffa — trained in Ireland and set to be ridden by Mark Zahra — will carry 59kg, one of the heaviest burdens in the field. While the exact saddlecloth number and barrier draw weren’t confirmed at press time, early reports suggest the horse will start from a mid-field position. Zahra, who won the 2022 Cup on Gold Trip, is no stranger to Flemington pressure.

But not everything is going smoothly.

Four Horses Under Veterinary Review — Is the Field in Flux?

Just days before the race, four key contenders were flagged by Racing Victoria’s veterinary team for potential fitness concerns.

• Absurde (Ireland): Showed slight gait irregularities during post-qualifier checks.
• Flatten The Curve (Australia): Similar concerns over stride pattern.
• Goodie Two Shoes (Australia): Pulled up with minor stiffness after a recent trial.
• Interpretation (Ireland): Reported soreness following his Bendigo Cup run on Wednesday.

These horses must undergo re-examination before being cleared to run. If any fail the vet check, it could trigger a reshuffle in the field — potentially opening the door for reserves like Mostly Cloudy or Zardozi, who are on standby.

This kind of last-minute drama isn’t new, but it adds tension. As one insider put it: “You can have the best horse, the best draw, the best jockey — but if the vet says no, it’s over.”

The Big Names: Who’s Who in the 2025 Field

Half Yours — Australia’s Last Stand?

With only one Australian-trained horse in the top tier, Half Yours has become the symbolic torchbearer for local pride. The son of So You Think won the Caulfield Cup just three weeks prior — a rare feat that puts him in elite company.

But can he go one better?

The McEvoy team has been open about their strategy: “We’re not just here to make up the numbers,” said Tony McEvoy. “He’s got the class, the stamina, and the jockey. If it rains, he’ll be even stronger.”

James McDonald, one of Australia’s most in-form jockeys, will be in the saddle. His tactical awareness and calm under pressure could be the difference in a race known for its chaos in the final 200 metres.

Al Riffa — The International Juggernaut

From the stables of Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Al Riffa has been a dominant force in European staying races. With a powerful finishing kick and proven form over 2800–3200m, he’s the early favourite in most betting markets.

But the 59kg weight assignment is a challenge. No horse has won the Melbourne Cup carrying 59kg or more since Think Big in 1975. It’s a weight that demands perfection — and even then, luck plays a role.

Mark Zahra’s return adds intrigue. After winning in 2022, he knows the Flemington circuit intimately. “It’s not just about speed,” he said in a recent interview. “It’s about timing, patience, and knowing when to strike.”

The Wildcards: International Raiders and Dark Horses

Don’t sleep on the international brigade:

• Warp Speed (Japan): Came second in 2024 and returns with improved form. Lightly weighted and well-suited to wet ground.
• Okita Soushi (Ireland): Third last year, now with a year of Australian experience under his belt. Trained by Joseph O’Brien, who knows how to target this race.
• Knight’s Choice (Australia): The 2024 winner returns — but with a higher weight and tougher competition. Can lightning strike twice?

And then there’s Zardozi, the Godolphin-owned filly who’s been quietly improving. At 3200m, she could be a surprise contender if the pace is strong and she’s held back for a late surge.

Why This Year Feels Different — And Why It Matters

The Melbourne Cup isn’t just a horse race. It’s a cultural institution — a day when Australia collectively stops, dresses up, and bets a little too much on a horse with a funny name.

But 2025 feels different for several reasons:

1. The International Takeover

Over the past decade, the Cup has increasingly become a global event. In 2025, 14 of the 24 starters are international horses — the highest proportion in over 20 years. This reflects the growing prestige of the race and the willingness of overseas trainers to target Australia’s Spring Carnival.

But it’s also sparked debate. Is the Cup still “ours”? Or is it becoming a glorified international handicap?

“The best horses should be here,” argues The Age racing editor. “But there’s something special about an Aussie battler beating the world. That’s the magic of the Cup.”

2. Animal Welfare and Public Scrutiny

Animal rights groups continue to monitor the event closely. The 2024 race saw two fatalities — Durston and Gold Trip (post-race euthanasia due to injury) — which reignited debate over safety, training practices, and the ethics of long-distance racing.

In response, Racing Victoria has introduced stricter pre-race vet checks, improved track monitoring, and enhanced welfare protocols. Still, the spotlight remains intense.

3. Betting and the Economy

The Melbourne Cup is Australia’s biggest betting event of the year. In 2024, over $600 million was wagered nationally. With rising cost-of-living pressures, some are questioning whether the tradition of office sweeps and casual bets is sustainable.

Yet, the betting industry remains