2026 Cox Plate Tips, Odds & Betting Preview

Saturday’s 2040m Group 1 Cox Plate shapes as an unusually open contest. Sir Delius, Aeliana and Ceolwulf bring proven elite-level form, while three-year-olds Warwoven and Blind Raise receive a substantial weight advantage. The Flemington setting adds a different tactical dimension to a race normally decided around Moonee Valley’s tight turns.

2026 Cox Plate race details

• Date: Saturday 24 October 2026
• Venue: Flemington, Melbourne
• Distance: 2040m
• Grade: Group 1, weight-for-age
• Prize money: $6 million
• Field: 12 runners

Cox Plate final field and barriers

Leading contenders

Sir Delius

The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained multiple Group 1 winner has long been prominent in Cox Plate markets. Craig Williams rides from barrier five, a potentially useful position in a race with several runners who prefer to press forward. He has the class to win but faces a strong challenge from the mare and the lightly weighted three-year-olds.

Aeliana

Chris Waller’s mare is partnered by James McDonald, who is chasing a fifth consecutive Cox Plate victory. Aeliana’s ability to sustain a long run could be especially effective at Flemington, although barrier ten means McDonald may need to make an early tactical decision.

Ceolwulf

The dual King Charles III Stakes winner brings genuine Group 1 credentials to the race. His latest form against Autumn Glow is relevant, but stepping beyond the mile against elite weight-for-age opposition raises a fresh question. Chad Schofield will need to ensure he settles and finishes strongly.

Warwoven and Blind Raise

The Caulfield Guineas first and second bring strong three-year-old form, with both allotted just 49.5kg. Warwoven has drawn barrier two for Rachel King, while Blind Raise is partnered by Jamie Melham. They are compelling lightweight chances, although the step to 2040m against seasoned older horses is a major test.

Birdman, Cosmic Crusader and Saint George

Birdman adds depth to Chris Waller’s team. Cosmic Crusader backs up from the Caulfield Cup and will need to cope with the quick turnaround, while Saint George has the staying credentials to make his presence felt if the race becomes a demanding test. All three warrant respect in wider calculations.

How the Cox Plate could unfold

Land Legend and Light Infantry Man are important to the pace map, particularly from wide barriers. Sir Delius should have more tactical options from gate five, while Warwoven can conserve ground from barrier two. Aeliana’s barrier ten introduces the risk of a wide passage or a position farther back than ideal. Unlike Moonee Valley, Flemington offers a long straight that can reward runners able to build momentum rather than those reliant on a short sprint.

Cox Plate betting tips

Top selection: (10) Aeliana – $4.60 win / $1.85 place. She has the profile to excel at Flemington and James McDonald’s Cox Plate record is a major positive. Barrier ten prevents this from being a straightforward selection.

Main danger: (3) Sir Delius – $4.20 win / $1.75 place. Proven top-level class, a favourable draw and Craig Williams make him a genuine winning threat.

Value watch: (11) Warwoven – $4.60 win / $1.85 place. The three-year-old gets in with 49.5kg and draws barrier two. His appeal will depend on the final market.

Next best: (1) Ceolwulf – $7.50 win / $2.50 place. A proven Group 1 performer who could feature if he handles the extra distance.

Top selections

1. (10) Aeliana – $4.60 win / $1.85 place
2. (3) Sir Delius – $4.20 win / $1.75 place
3. (11) Warwoven – $4.60 win / $1.85 place
4. (1) Ceolwulf – $7.50 win / $2.50 place

Cox Plate odds

Prices are indicative and may fluctuate. Check current prices and place terms before betting.

The market is tightly contested: Sir Delius leads this snapshot at $4.20, with Aeliana and Warwoven both $4.60. Our top selection remains Aeliana, but this is an open race rather than a standout favourite.