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2026 Australian Spring Racing Carnival nominations

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2026-09-02 03:25 UTC → 2026-09-09 02:09 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The 2026 Australian Spring Racing Carnival has seen significant nomination activity for its major Group 1 events. In mid-August, the Melbourne Racing Club announced 124 nominations for the Caulfield Cup. Although the total number of entries was lower than in previous years, international interest remained high, with 32 entries from stables in France, England, and Ireland. The previous year’s winner, Half Yours, was among the domestic nominees. By early September, the Victoria Racing Club reported 101 nominations for the 166th Melbourne Cup. While the total volume of entries has decreased since 2022, international participation has risen significantly. Approximately one in four entries—23 horses from England, Ireland, Japan, and the United States—are international, compared to 16 percent in 2024 and 2025. Notable contenders include the 2025 champion, Half Yours, and Joseph O’Brien, who leads the international contingent with 11 nominations. On September 8, updates regarding the Cox Plate revealed that all 15 international nominees withdrew during the first declaration stage, leaving the field composed entirely of 57 Australasian-trained horses. Due to the redevelopment of Moonee Valley, the race will be held at Flemington. Trainer Chris Waller holds a dominant position in the Cox Plate with 19 entries, alongside contenders such as Sir Delius, Sheza Alibi, and Autumn Glow. Notably, 31 of the 57 remaining horses are previous Group 1 winners. Additionally, the 2026 Caulfield Guineas has received 101 three-year-old nominations. Chris Waller is also a major figure in this event with 18 entries. The current betting favourite for the $3 million race is the Waller-trained colt Tron Bolt.

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