Thursday, 2nd April 2026
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A new chapter in Cox Plate history will be written in 2026, with Flemington set to stage the prestigious race for the first time, reports racing.com. With Moonee Valley undergoing major redevelopment from November through to mid-2027, Racing Victoria and the Moonee Valley Racing Club announced that the Victoria Racing Club would take on hosting duties for next year’s running following a recommendation from the MVRC committee, subsequently endorsed by the RV Board. The feature meeting is scheduled for Saturday, October 24 and will include nine races, highlighted by the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m), which doubles as a golden ticket qualifier into the Lexus Melbourne Cup. Full race programming and prizemoney allocations are still to be finalised. RV chief executive Aaron Morrison said Flemington had been selected based on its ability to deliver the highest standard of racing and fan engagement. “We’re confident the VRC can present a premium race day experience for Ladbrokes Cox Plate Day and maintain momentum into the four-day Melbourne Cup Carnival. We’re grateful to the MVRC for their detailed submission and to all clubs and commercial partners who contributed during the process.” MVRC chief executive Michael Browell welcomed the decision, acknowledging the significance of the occasion. “While it’s the first time the Cox Plate has been relocated, we’re looking forward to working closely with the VRC to deliver a memorable event for members of both clubs and the wider racing public,” he said. Browell also extended thanks to Racing Victoria and other clubs for their support during a period of transformation for The Valley. For VRC chief executive Kylie Rogers, the opportunity to host one of Australia’s greatest races is a tremendous honour. “This will be a landmark moment for Flemington and for racing fans across the country. We’re excited to bring this vision to life in collaboration with our partners.” Both MVRC and VRC members will enjoy access to Flemington on the day, with Ladbrokes continuing its longstanding support as naming rights sponsor of the meeting. The shift to a new venue ensures the 2026 Cox Plate retains its prestige and prominence on the racing calendar, even as redevelopment work temporarily reshapes its traditional home. Plans are already in motion to create a carnival atmosphere befitting the occasion, ensuring the 2026 Cox Plate remains one of the sport’s most celebrated and anticipated events.
