Melbourne Cup prize pool hits record $10.2m, winner pockets $4.5m
The 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup prize pool reaches $10.2m, with winners claiming $4.5m in cash and trophies.
The 2026 Melbourne Cup has boosted its prize purse to $10.2 million, up from $10 million last year, keeping it the world's richest handicap horse race. The winning connection takes home $4.5 million, split among owners (85 per cent, or $3.825m), trainers (10 per cent, $450,000) and the jockey (5 per cent, $225,000).
The prize includes the Hardy Brothers 18-carat gold trophy valued at $250,000. Every horse in the field on Tuesday earns at least $100,000, with second place receiving $1.11 million and third getting $560,000.
The purse guarantees payouts across 24 runners, making it one of racing's most lucrative days.
- $10.2 million
- Total prize pool
- $4.5 million
- Winner's purse
- $100,000
- Minimum per runner
- $250,000
- Hardy Brothers trophy
Why it mattersThe record prize pool reflects the race's status as Australia's most valuable racing day and attracts elite horses and trainers globally.
AustraliaThe Melbourne Cup is Australia's most watched horse race and a major betting event, with the expanded prize pool reinforcing its appeal to owners and trainers.
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