Cosmic Crusader leads favorites for the 2026 Caulfield Cup

The 2026 Caulfield Cup features a competitive field led by the favorite, Cosmic Crusader. Trained by Andrea Leek and ridden by jockey William Pike, the six-year-old gelding has entered the race with strong momentum following a victory in the Turnbull Stakes.

Leek faces significant competition from major Australian trainers, including Ciaron Maher, who has five runners in the race, and Chris Waller, who has three. Other notable contenders include the defending champion Half Yours, carrying 59kg, and Zahrann, who is tipped by racing experts to take first place.

International challengers from the UK, including Wine Dark Sea, Enfjaar, and Starford, are also expected to compete, though experts expressed caution regarding international horses competing in their first Australian race.