Melbourne Cup 2025: 40 Entries, Buckaroo Confirmed

The 2025 Melbourne Cup field currently lists 40 entries that will be trimmed to a 24-runner field for the Nov. 4 race at Flemington, to be broadcast on Channel 9/9Now and contested for a reported $10 million prize. Leading contenders include Half Yours, Valiant King and international stayer Al Riffa, while recent withdrawals and penalties (including one applied to Onesmoothoperator) have reshaped the line-up. The Bendigo Cup remains a final chance for horses such as Arapaho, Don Diego De Vega, Interpretation, Mark Twain, Quietness and Sayedaty Sadaty to secure late spots, with the winner likely to attract a weight penalty. Owner Ozzie Kheir has confirmed Buckaroo will run with Craig Williams booked to ride; the horse is currently quoted around $9. Derby Day at Flemington is rated Good 4 with the rail out +2m, but wear from the meeting and up to 50mm of rain forecast could downgrade the surface before Cup Day, a key variable for connections and punters.