Melbourne Cup order of entry

The Melbourne Cup order of entry for 2026 has been updated as of September 28, 2026, outlining the contenders vying for spots in the 24-horse field. The prestigious race offers A$9.09 million in prize money alongside A$1.11 million in trophies, with ballot-order lists being progressively tracked ahead of the final declarations.

As of the September 28 update, four runners hold ballot-exempt status: Defiantly trained by Joseph O'Brien, Tawny Port under Miguel Clement, Shockletz prepared by Ciaron Maher, and Zakouma trained by Grahame Begg. Additional leading contenders who have passed the first ballot clause include Chris Waller's Aeliana and Aidan O'Brien's Christmas Day.