The Lexus Melbourne Cup, worth a staggering AUS $10 million, returns to Flemington Racecourse on November 4, 2025, promising high drama, endurance, and glory over 3200 meters. Synonymous with prestige and passion, this iconic Group 1 contest remains the beating heart of Australian racing — a moment when champions are made and history is written.
But the Melbourne Cup is more than just one race; it’s a full day of elite competition that celebrates the very essence of the sport. The supporting card on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day features ten thrilling events, each brimming with talent and anticipation.
The day begins at 10:45 AM with the Darley Maribyrnong Plate (1000 m), a $240,000 sprint that showcases Australia’s most exciting two-year-old prospects. This traditional opener often unveils stars of the future, setting the tone for the exhilarating card ahead.
At 11:20 AM, seasoned campaigners tackle the MA Services Grand Handicap (2000 m) for $150,000, followed by the TAB Trophy (1800 m) at 12:00 PM, where emerging middle-distance contenders will vie for a $200,000 purse.
The Schweppervescence Plate (1000 m) at 12:40 PM brings another dash of speed for $150,000, before stamina takes center stage in the Australian Heritage Cup (2800 m) at 1:20 PM, carrying $250,000 for the staying specialists.
The tempo builds further with the Kirin Ichiban Plate (1800 m) at 1:55 PM, worth $200,000, setting the stage perfectly for the day’s crown jewel — the Lexus Melbourne Cup at 3:00 PM.
After Australia’s most anticipated race has been run and won, Flemington will continue to sparkle with high-quality contests. The Lexus Amanda Elliott (1400 m) at 3:50 PM and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes (1400 m) at 4:35 PM, offering $200,000 and $240,000 respectively, will keep the excitement alive before the curtain falls with the Channel 9 Trophy (1400 m) at 5:15 PM, a spirited $150,000 finale.
Stay tuned to RaceBuzz for live coverage, expert insights, and all the highlights from Flemington’s most prestigious day.
