Flemington set to host Cox Plate 2026
The iconic Cox Plate will step away from its traditional home in 2026, with Flemington to host the $5 million race for the very first time.
Moonee Valley, which has staged every Cox Plate since the race’s inception in 1922, will close after this year’s edition to undergo a major redevelopment, paving the way for Flemington to step in as host.
Following an Expression of Interest process, Racing Victoria and the Moonee Valley Racing Club announced the historic venue shift on Wednesday. The Melbourne Racing Club had also lodged a bid, hoping to stage the event in the aftermath of the Caulfield Cup Carnival, but Flemington was deemed best placed.
The 2026 Cox Plate at Flemington will be run the week before the Melbourne Cup Carnival and will feature a nine-race program, highlighted by the Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), which awards a Golden Ticket into the Melbourne Cup.
Racing Victoria said commercial benefits, wagering turnover, audience engagement and crowd capacity were key factors behind the decision, with Flemington offering the ideal stage for such an occasion.
Victoria Racing Club chief executive Kylie Rogers said Flemington was honoured to be entrusted with the race.
“This will be an historic occasion, bringing tens of thousands of Australians together to enjoy the day,” Rogers said.
“We thank Racing Victoria, the Moonee Valley Racing Club and our commercial partners for their collaboration and can’t wait to see the collective vision for a Cox Plate at Flemington come to life.
“It sets the scene for an unforgettable spring at Flemington, where the world’s best come together.”
Moonee Valley Racing Club CEO Michael Browell said the change marks a milestone moment in the Cox Plate’s storied legacy.
“The MVRC looks forward to partnering with the VRC to create an exceptional event for members of both clubs and racegoers as we showcase Australia’s Best Race at Flemington,” Browell said.
For those planning a bet on the historic 2026 Cox Plate, markets will be available through the nation’s most trusted betting sites.
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