Australasian horses dominate 2026 Cox Plate and Caulfield Guineas nominations

The 2026 Cox Plate will feature no international runners after all 15 overseas nominations withdrew during the first declaration stage. Despite the absence of international competitors, 57 Australasian-trained horses remain in contention for the $6 million race, which is scheduled to be held at Flemington due to the redevelopment of Moonee Valley.

Trainer Chris Waller holds a significant position in the Cox Plate field with 19 entries. Other notable contenders include Sir Delius, Sheza Alibi, and Autumn Glow. The remaining field maintains high quality, with 31 of the 57 horses having previously won at the Group 1 level.

In separate spring racing news, the 2026 Caulfield Guineas has attracted 101 three-year-old nominations. Chris Waller is a major figure in this Group 1 event as well, spearheading the entries with 18 horses. The current betting favourite for the $3 million race is Tron Bolt, a Waller-trained colt that recently won the JJ Atkins race.