Racing Victoria (RV) has confirmed the 2026 Group 1 Ladbrokes Cox Plate (2040m) will be run at Flemington Racecourse (pictured) due to a major redevelopment of the Moonee Valley Racecourse (MVRC) which will span for at least 21 months from November 2025. 

RV determined the famous race, which will be held on Saturday October 24, will be held at the iconic Flemington track after heavy consultation with the MVRC. The decision was based on wagering, attendance, engagement and commercial implications in the venue transfer, with Flemington’s track determined to be best placed to maximise the race’s elite status.

The nine-race program, which will also include the Group 2 Ladbrokes Moonee Valley Golf Club (2500m), with the race offering the winner a ticket into the 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup (3200m). The remaining seven races on the program and prize money will be confirmed at a later date.

It is the first time the Cox Plate - first staged in 1922 - will be held outside of The Valley. 

RV CEO Aaron Morrison said Flemington provided the best possible scene to stage a Group 1 race.

“We believe that Flemington is the best location to maximise attendance, wagering and engagement with the meeting and we have confidence in the VRC’s ability to present a high-quality track for Ladbrokes Cox Plate Day and the four-day Melbourne Cup Carnival that follows,” he said.  “We thank the MVRC for their work in exploring various options for the 2026 Ladbrokes Cox Plate in light of The Valley’s redevelopment and for tabling an informative recommendation for our board to consider and ultimately endorse. 

Victoria Racing Club CEO Kylie Rogers was ecstatic to host the famous race in October.

“It is an honour for the VRC to be named as hosts of the 2026 Cox Plate at Flemington Racecourse. This will be an historic occasion, bringing tens of thousands of Australians together to enjoy the day,” he 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.” 

The Moonee Valley major redevelopment is expected to be completed by mid-2027, with the $220 million works to commence on November 1. 

The scope of work includes full track reconstruction, new racing infrastructure, upgraded underpasses, retaining walls and the installation of new track lighting. It follows the appointment of Evergreen Turf as the turf provider for the new racecourse, which is currently growing at their Pakenham farm. The new 27-metre wide track will be constructed with improved drainage, irrigation and turf for better safety and performance.
 

Story and pictures by Nick Creely