Joseph O’Brien looks to continue his remarkable season as he’s confirmed 11 entries for the Melbourne Cup. O’Brien won his second British Classic of the season as Highwayman completed a 1-2 for the yard in the St Leger. Thundering On delivered the first, taking the Epsom Oaks earlier in the season.
O’Brien’s illustrious list of achievements demonstrate a rare versatility to train winners under both codes at the top level. Not long before the Oaks, Home By The Lee won the Stayers’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.
O’Brien has already won two Melbourne Cups, the first with Rekindling in 2017. The son of High Chaparral was fourth in the St Leger en-route. Three years later, Twilight Payment sprung a surprise to make all following his Irish St Leger third.
O’Brien said earlier this week he could potentially run up to 10, including his recent classic winner. Highwayman was allotted a weight of 56.5kg (8st 13lb) following his St Leger success. Ante-post favourite Defiantly, who’s guaranteed a run, will carry the same following his smart performance at Deauville last month.
Kizlyar, who beat Defiantly at Royal Ascot, will carry 53.5kg meaning he’s better off with his stablemate.
Such a squad is a testament to the mentality of Joseph O’Brien, whose international endeavours rarely fail to deliver success. Victoria Racing Club’s Chief Racing Officer Leigh Jordon echoed such sentiment, as he said in a statement on Victoria Racing Club: “With such a strong international contingent nominated for our great race this year, it’s hard to overlook Joseph O’Brien. Looking for his third win in the race, already with his biggest set of nominations this year”
Strong international presence to bolster Flemington showpiece
Outside of Joseph O’Brien, the international contingent is seemingly strong for the 2026 Melbourne Cup. Jordon added: “It’s been 20 years since Japan’s famous quinella in our great race. With tough stayer and winner of this year’s Diamond Stakes, Stinger Glass flying the flag for the land of the rising sun”
Christophe Lemaire won the race 15 years ago and will ride Stinger Glass, an improving stayer this season. America are also represented this season, as Tawny Port will take the voyage for Miguel Clement.
The home team are typically strong, and last year’s winner Half Yours bids to reclaim his crown. Following the weights release, the first declarations for the Melbourne Cup will take place on Tuesday 29th September, with the final declarations taking place on the 31st October.