Melbourne Cup field changes as horse Defiantly ruled out after vet inspection
By Chloe · Published 31 Oct 2026 · Updated 31 Oct 2026
Melbourne, VIC · Victoria News
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Melbourne Cup field changes as horse Defiantly ruled out after vet inspection - Melbourne, VIC
Smart summary
The Melbourne Cup field has changed again after international challenger Defiantly failed a veterinary inspection on Derby Day.
The Melbourne Cup field has undergone another major change after international contender Defiantly was withdrawn following a veterinary inspection at Werribee, near Melbourne.
Defiantly, trained by Irish trainer Joseph O’Brien, had been considered one of the leading international chances for the $10.2 million Melbourne Cup. The horse had attracted attention after winning the Group Two Prix Kergorlay over 3,000 metres at Deauville in France.
The horse was already under veterinary review after failing an initial inspection on Thursday. Veterinarians had noticed a change in its gait compared with previous examinations. Defiantly was also presented without a right hind shoe.
A second inspection was conducted on Saturday morning, but the veterinary panel decided that the horse was still not suitable to compete. Racing Victoria stewards subsequently ordered its withdrawal on veterinary advice.
The decision is part of the strict safety procedures introduced to reduce the risk of serious injuries during major racing events. Horses entered in the Melbourne Cup must pass mandatory veterinary examinations before being accepted into the final field.
Defiantly is not the only major contender to miss this year's race. Japanese horse Stinger Glass was also ruled out after CT and PET scans indicated an increased risk of injury. Australian-trained Saint George was withdrawn after veterinary scans raised similar concerns.
Meanwhile, two other international runners, Enfjaar and Wine Dark Sea, passed their Saturday inspections after initially being required to undergo further checks.
Defiantly's withdrawal has opened an opportunity for stablemate Kizlyar to move into the Melbourne Cup field. The final list of accepted runners was scheduled to be declared on Saturday afternoon, followed by the barrier draw.
The 2026 Melbourne Cup is scheduled for Tuesday, 3 November, at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne. The 3,200-metre race remains one of Australia's most recognised sporting events and attracts competitors from Australia and overseas.
The withdrawals have renewed attention on the importance of horse welfare and veterinary assessments in elite racing. While losing a leading contender can disappoint owners, trainers and racing supporters, the inspection process is designed to prioritise the safety of horses before they compete.
The final field and barrier positions will determine which runners take their places in the famous race.
MelbourneVeterinaryDefiantlyHorseField
The Melbourne Cup field has undergone another major change after international contender Defiantly was withdrawn following a veterinary inspection at Werribee, near Melbourne.
Defiantly, trained by Irish trainer Joseph O’Brien, had been considered one of the leading international chances for the $10.2 million Melbourne Cup. The horse had attracted attention after winning the Group Two Prix Kergorlay over 3,000 metres at Deauville in France.
The horse was already under veterinary review after failing an initial inspection on Thursday. Veterinarians had noticed a change in its gait compared with previous examinations. Defiantly was also presented without a right hind shoe.
A second inspection was conducted on Saturday morning, but the veterinary panel decided that the horse was still not suitable to compete. Racing Victoria stewards subsequently ordered its withdrawal on veterinary advice.
The decision is part of the strict safety procedures introduced to reduce the risk of serious injuries during major racing events. Horses entered in the Melbourne Cup must pass mandatory veterinary examinations before being accepted into the final field.
Defiantly is not the only major contender to miss this year's race. Japanese horse Stinger Glass was also ruled out after CT and PET scans indicated an increased risk of injury. Australian-trained Saint George was withdrawn after veterinary scans raised similar concerns.
Meanwhile, two other international runners, Enfjaar and Wine Dark Sea, passed their Saturday inspections after initially being required to undergo further checks.
Defiantly's withdrawal has opened an opportunity for stablemate Kizlyar to move into the Melbourne Cup field. The final list of accepted runners was scheduled to be declared on Saturday afternoon, followed by the barrier draw.
The 2026 Melbourne Cup is scheduled for Tuesday, 3 November, at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne. The 3,200-metre race remains one of Australia's most recognised sporting events and attracts competitors from Australia and overseas.
The withdrawals have renewed attention on the importance of horse welfare and veterinary assessments in elite racing. While losing a leading contender can disappoint owners, trainers and racing supporters, the inspection process is designed to prioritise the safety of horses before they compete.
The final field and barrier positions will determine which runners take their places in the famous race.
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