As the 2025 Melbourne Cup approaches, the field is taking shape with notable developments and emerging contenders.
Retirement of a Champion
Without A Fight, the 2023 Melbourne Cup winner who achieved the rare Caulfield-Melbourne Cup double, has been retired. After a distinguished career spanning 24 starts and nearly $10 million in prize money, the Freedman stable announced his retirement, marking the end of a significant era in Australian racing.
Emerging Contenders
Deakin, a five-year-old with a background in Ireland under trainer Joseph O'Brien, has secured a spot in the Melbourne Cup field. With five wins from 14 starts, he is currently listed as a $15 third favourite and is also targeting the Caulfield Cup.
International Prospects
The international contingent remains strong. Irish-trained horses such as Vauban, Absurde, and the current favourite Jan Brueghal are in contention. British hopefuls include Onesmoothoperator and Sea King, the latter needing a top-three finish in the upcoming Bendigo Cup to secure a place.
Lead-Up Races
Key lead-up races continue to influence the Melbourne Cup field. The Caulfield Cup remains a significant predictor, having produced six Melbourne Cup winners since 2000. Other notable races include the Cox Plate and the Geelong Cup, each contributing to the form lines of potential contenders.
With five months to the big race, there are sure to be further developments and emerging contenders that catch our eye. Form, injury, good luck, and bad will play a part on the road to the Melbourne Cup.
As we move into winter ahead of the spring racing season, the Melbourne Cup field is shaping up to be a competitive mix of seasoned champions and emerging talent, and no doubt a Cinderella story or two. Whatever the makeup of the field, it promises to be an exciting race come November.
Stay tuned and check back in for further news and updates as the field narrows on the road to the Melbourne Cup.