The Melbourne Cup 2026 is fast approaching and we have worked to highlight some of the best betting tips for the ‘Race that Stops a Nation’. Check out our selections below, as well as outright odds and best places to bet.
Odds for this race are available with the best Australian bookmakers. We looked at how bet365, Palmerbet and Betr have priced up the top 10 in the outright winner market.
As you can see, if you think Half Yours is going to win the Melbourne Cup again then you would be better backing that horse with bet365 instead of Palmerbet or Betr. Remember that odds also change the closer the race gets to the start but this gives an idea of how prices can vary.
Horses listed in the futures market during the pre-nomination stage can also vary massively from one bookie to the next. This is why it is always worth checking how different bookies price up the market even at an early stage. Once entries have been made, betting will become ‘all-in’, which means you will lose your stake if your horse does not start but the odds can be much higher than on the day of the race.
| Horse |   
| ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Defiantly | |||
| Half Yours | |||
| Aeliana | |||
| Zahrann | |||
| James J Braddock | |||
| Shockletz | |||
| Trustyourinstinct | |||
| Stinger Glass | |||
| Wine Dark Sea | |||
| Mr Monaco |
*Odds correct at time of writing.
Here you will find our best bets for the famous race. We have nominated an early long-range prediction at appealing each-way odds but will also provide other tips as the race gets closer. Check back to see our top best bet closer to the Melbourne Cup 2025. As well as top tips, you can also read on to see a more in-depth look at how the 2025 contest is shaping up.
This mare can secure Melbourne Cup victory and looks an appealing price for top trainer Chris Waller. She finished strongly in the Turnbull Stakes at this track when she had last year’s winner behind. The step up in trip will suit and she is a consistent option that could also be backed each-way.
The Melbourne Cup 2026 betting market is generally headed by as trainer Joseph O’Brien chases this third success in the race.
The son of Kameko booked his place in this year’s contest with a front-running victory in the Group 2 Sumbe Prix Kergorlay at Deauville. He’s a progressive stayer for owners Australian Bloodstock and looks to hold a big chance.
Half Yours is also near the head of the market as the Tony and Calvin McEvoy-trained gelding looks to defend his crown after landing Melbourne Cup glory in 2025. He would have to become just the fourth horse to win successive wins in the race.
Aeliana is another interesting domestic contender should the mare take up her chance. The Chris Waller-trained horse came third in the Turnbull Stakes when running on well to suggest a step up in trip will suit.
Once you have placed your bets on the Melbourne Cup you can also use some online bookies to stream the race as well. Being able to bet on the race and then watch the action from the same place is a big positive.
Bookmakers like Palmerbet, Dabble and Betr have Melbourne Cup live streams for their customers. All you need is a funded or active betting account and you can see the content for free online. If you download their app then you can also watch easily through your mobile device.
Check out our round-up of our best Melbourne Cup 2025 betting tips. Click the button below to see our recommended selections for the race.