Ballot-exempt horses for the 2025 Melbourne Cup

Posted on October 31, 2025October 31, 2025 | Posted by TABtouch

A handful of horses have secured automatic entry into the Cup by winning designated “golden ticket” races. So who are they, and can they win Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup?

Half Yours

Winner of the G1 Caulfield Cup (2400m)

Trainer: Tony & Calvin McEvoy
Weight: 53kg (after 2kg penalty)

Chances:

• Pros: In top form, strong local support, and now Cup favourite at $3.50.
• Cons: Yet to race beyond 2400m, so stamina over 3200m is untested.
• Verdict: A serious contender if he stays the trip.

Onesmoothoperator (USA)

Winner of the G2 Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m)

Trainer: Brian Ellison
Weight: 53kg (after 1kg penalty)

Chances:

• Pros: Proven stayer with wins over longer distances.
• Cons: Finished 12th in last year’s Cup; may lack elite class.
• Verdict: A dark horse with staying credentials.

Torranzino (NZ)

Winner of the G3 Geelong Cup (2400m)

Trainer: Paul Preusker
Weight: 51kg

Chances:

• Pros: Lightweight, tough and consistent.
• Cons: Unproven over 3200m and lacks top-tier form.
• Verdict: A value outsider with a fighting chance.

Valiant King (GB)

Winner of the G3 Bart Cummings (2500m)

Trainer: Chris Waller
Weight: 51kg

Chances:

• Pros: Suited to longer distances, trained by a Cup-winning trainer.
• Cons: Needs a fast-run race; vulnerable on wet ground.
• Verdict: A genuine chance if conditions suit.

Parchment Party (USA)

Winner of the G3 Belmont Gold Cup (USA – 2816m)

Trainer: William Mott
Weight: 52kg

Chances:

• Pros: First US-trained horse in the Cup, dominant win in qualifying race.
• Cons: Unfamiliar with Australian conditions and track.
• Verdict: A wildcard with international flair.

Unfortunately, extenuating circumstances have ruled out a few of the golden ticket winners.

• Roy Higgins champ Deakin failed a vet scan last week.
• Andrew Ramsden victor Basilinna needs surgery to remove bone chips from her near fore fetlock.
• Revelare has been spelled after trainer Rob Hickmott ruled that contesting the Melbourne Cup would not be in the best interests of the Archer Stakes winner.

Additionally, Via Sistina’s team have opted not to have her contest the Melbourne Cup, even though the Cox Plate winner gains automatic ballot exemption.

With five ballot-exempt runners confirmed and several notable absentees, the 2025 Melbourne Cup field is already shaping up to be one of intrigue and unpredictability. Each contender brings a unique story and set of strengths to the race. As always, staying the gruelling 3200 metres will be the ultimate test – and only one will etch their name into Cup history.