The countdown is on towards the race that stops a nation®, the $10.2 million Group 1 Lexus Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington Racecourse on Tuesday, after the final field of 24 was confirmed and the barriers were drawn at the conclusion of Howden Victoria Derby Day. Lexus Melbourne Cup field and barriers announced for 166th running 31 October 2026 • Written by VRC The countdown is on towards the race that stops.