Melbourne Cup 2026 field narrows as key contenders withdraw

The field for the 166th running of the $10.2 million Lexus Melbourne Cup is taking shape following the third acceptance stage, leaving 39 horses in contention. The latest declaration stage saw the withdrawal of 15 runners, most notably Chris Waller’s star mare Aeliana, who is considered very unlikely to contest the race following her third-place finish in the Cox Plate. Stablemate Birdman was also withdrawn after failing to meet the acceptance requirements.

In Sydney, the Bjorn Baker-trained stayer So You Are faces a difficult qualification path. Despite winning three consecutive stakes races, the horse remains 32nd in the Melbourne Cup order of entry. To improve his position and secure a berth, connections may be forced to contest the $500,000 Bendigo Cup, a move trainer Bjorn Baker described as frustrating.

As the race approaches, Geelong Cup winner Point Of Law remains the betting market leader. The next major financial deadline for remaining contenders involves a $55,000 payment due next Saturday to progress to the final acceptance stage.