The Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m) is once again set to take place in front of spectactors next month with the Victorian State Government giving the green light for a crowd of up to 10,000 people to be on course at Flemington.

The same number of spectators will also be allowed for the Oaks meeting on November 4 as well as Mackinnon Stakes Day on November 6.

While it is a tenth of the usual number of participants Victoria Racing Club chairman Neil Wilson is delighted to have the time-honoured race become one of the marquee events included in the reopening of events in the state.

“The VRC sincerely thanks the Victorian Government, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula, Racing Victoria and the broader industry for their support of our event plan and their endorsement of the Melbourne Cup Carnival as a major event for Victoria and Australia,” Wilson said. 

VRC chief executive Steve Rosich said the Club was ready to host a COVID-safe event across the three days which will utilise the Club’s numerous hospitality venues and expansive grounds. 

“We will now work with the Victorian Government to fully understand the event requirements for the VRC and attendees, and we will execute our plans accordingly,” Rosich said. 

“We will share further information with our members, partners, owners and the public as soon as possible and by October 15 at the latest.”