Defiantly Ruled Out of 2026 Melbourne Cup After Vet Check

The 2026 Melbourne Cup field has undergone a major change after international contender Defiantly was ruled out of the race on Saturday, October 31, following a failed veterinary inspection. The Joseph O'Brien-trained gelding, which had been considered a long-time favourite, was withdrawn by order of stewards acting on veterinary advice.

Why it is trending now

As of October 31, 2026, the withdrawal of Defiantly has caused significant disruption to the race field just days before the event. The horse, which was in quarantine at Werribee, had failed an initial inspection on Thursday before being re-examined on Saturday morning. Racing Victoria confirmed that veterinarians found the horse unsuitable to accept for the race due to sensitivity in a hind foot.

Key facts

• Racing Victoria officials stated that Defiantly remains unsuitable for the race following their final veterinary assessment.
• The withdrawal is expected to allow another Joseph O'Brien-trained runner, Kizlyar, to enter the starting 24, according to ABC News.
• Other international challengers, including Enfjaar and Wine Dark Sea, have successfully passed their final inspections, while Stinger Glass and Saint George were ruled out earlier this week.
• The final field for the Melbourne Cup is set to be declared on the evening of October 31.

Why this is trending in Australia

The Melbourne Cup is a major event in the Australian sporting calendar, and the sudden scratching of a high-profile international favourite has drawn significant public interest. Fans and punters are closely monitoring the final field composition ahead of the race on Tuesday.

Background and context

Defiantly, a five-year-old gelding, had been a focus for the Melbourne Cup since being purchased by Australian Bloodstock. The horse gained momentum in August after a 5.5-length victory in the Group Two Prix Kergorlay at Deauville in France. The horse's connection to high-profile media identities has further heightened public attention regarding its late withdrawal.

What happens next

The final field for the Melbourne Cup will be declared on the evening of October 31. Following this, the barrier draw is scheduled to take place at 6:30pm. The race itself is set to be held at Flemington on Tuesday, with a full race day program planned.