Melbourne Cup champion Half Yours in doubt for 2026 edition

Reigning Melbourne Cup champion Half Yours is in doubt to defend his title in the 2026 edition following an involvement in a two-horse fall during the Caulfield Cup. While no final decision has been confirmed for the top weight, trainers Tony and Calvin McEvoy view sending the horse for a spell in the paddock as the most likely outcome. Wagering on Half Yours has been suspended following the incident.

Prior to the Caulfield Cup, Half Yours held $9 odds to retain the Melbourne Cup crown. Meanwhile, international competitors Defiantly, Trustyourinstinct, and James J Braddock currently lead the market. In addition, the Victorian Jockeys' Association confirmed on Sunday that jockeys Mark Zahra and Jye McNeil avoided serious injury in the incident.