# Melbourne Cup 2026 race preparations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/melbourne-cup-2026-race-preparations
> Updated: 2026-09-28T14:21:59.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Preparation for the 2026 Melbourne Cup has progressed from international quarantine protocols to the determination of the primary field. 

Initially, seven international horses from the United Kingdom and Ireland, including Enfjaar and Wine Dark Sea, entered pre-export quarantine to undergo veterinary examinations. These horses were nominated for both the Caulfield Cup and the Melbourne Cup.

Following the close of first acceptances, 71 horses remain in contention for the race at Flemington. The field includes 13 international contenders from Ireland, England, and Japan. While some international horses have arrived in Australia, others remain in quarantine awaiting shipment. Trainer Ciaron Maher holds the largest contingent with 14 horses, and defending champion Half Yours remains in contention.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-28: Melbourne Cup: 71 horses remain in contention after first acceptances

Seventy-one horses, including 13 international contenders, remain in contention for the Melbourne Cup following the close of first acceptances.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/melbourne-cup-71-horses-remain-in-contention-after-first-acceptances

### 2026-09-12: International horses enter quarantine for Melbourne Cup races

Seven international horses have entered quarantine in the UK and Ireland to prepare for the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups during Melbourne's Spring Racing Carnival.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-horses-enter-quarantine-for-melbourne-cup-races

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Cite as: Melbourne Cup 2026 race preparations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/melbourne-cup-2026-race-preparations