Melbourne Cup prize money 2026: How much does the winner earn?

The 166th Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse is set for Tuesday, November 3, with 24 stayers competing over two miles. For 2026, the total prize pool is $10.2 million, including $9 million in cash and more than $1 million in trophies. The winning horse’s connections receive $4.5 million, while every runner is guaranteed at least $100,000. Prize money is typically split among owners (85%), trainer (10%) and jockey (5%). The winning jockey and trainer also receive their own smaller version of the Melbourne Cup trophy. Jump time for the Cup is scheduled for 3:00pm AEDT, and the race will be broadcast live free-to-air on Channel 9 with streaming on 9Now.