Caulfield Cup prize money boosted for historic 150th running

A substantial increase in prize money has been announced for the Caulfield Cup, perfectly timed for the historic 150th running of this iconic Australian thoroughbred race.

The renowned 2400m handicap event, set to take place on October 17, will now feature a total prize pool of $6 million. A key feature of this year's race is that all 18 horses competing will receive a portion of the prize money, with participants finishing outside the top ten earning $60,000.

This generous distribution structure now mirrors that of the Melbourne Cup, which also rewards horses finishing outside the top twelve positions.

The connections of the winning horse in the Caulfield Cup are set to receive a substantial $3.3 million, complemented by trophies valued at $550,000 designated for the owner, trainer, and jockey.

In an effort to enhance the international appeal and accessibility of the Caulfield Cup, the Melbourne Racing Club has introduced four new races to the international ballot-free pathway. The first of these new international qualifying races is the Listed Wolferton Stakes (2004m) at Royal Ascot.

Additionally, the Group 3 Glorious Stakes (2412m) at Goodwood, the Group 3 Prix de Reux (2500m) at Deauville, and the Group 3 Ballyroan Stakes (2414m) at Leopardstown have been added as overseas qualifiers.

MRC Chief Executive Tanya Fullarton stated that the 150th anniversary of the Caulfield Cup provided the opportune moment to elevate the race, ensuring its continued prominence as a major racing target.

"The Caulfield Cup will remain the world's richest 2400-metre handicap race supported by the increased prize money pool, which in distributing money to every starter, recognises the considerable commitment required to prepare a horse for a race of this scale," Tanya Fullarton remarked.

"These races staged at premium European venues have been selected to provide a more current and practical pathway for British, Irish and French-trained horses with a genuine Caulfield Cup profile.

"The Caulfield Cup has an extraordinary past. These changes are about making sure it has an equally strong future."

Leopardstown CEO Mark Clayton welcomed the inclusion of the Ballyroan Stakes in the Caulfield Cup's ballot-exempt international program.

"A 'win and you're in' initiative for the Caulfield Cup is a significant endorsement of the Group 3 Ballyroan Stakes and further enhances its international profile," said Mark Clayton.

"The Caulfield Cup is one of Australia's most prestigious handicaps, so the new connection creates an exciting opportunity for owners and trainers. We hope it will encourage even greater international ambition from Irish connections, and it would be fantastic to see more Irish-trained horses travelling to Australia and being competitive on the biggest stage."

Punters keen to get involved can check out the latest racing odds on Australian betting sites for the upcoming Caulfield Cup.