The race that stops a nation has arrived, with the 2026 edition of the Melbourne Cup only hours away.

With celebrations in full swing, sports stars, celebrities and personalities have descended on Flemington to strut their stuff in their Tuesday best.

From former Queensland Origin coaches, to some AFL premiership winners and a four-time Olympic gold medallist — there’s no shortage of recognisable faces on hand.

See below for the best photos from Tuesday’s racing spectacle!

Gallen v Asofa-Solomona | Friday November 6 from 7pm AEDT | Australian sporting icon and crossover boxing king Paul Gallen returns to the ring to face his biggest opponent yet, Nelson ‘Big Nasty’ Asofa-Solomona. | Order now on Kayo Sports.

TREVOR MARSHALLSEA’S FORM GUIDE: Verdict on every runner and predicted first 4

JIM CASSIDY’S FORM GUIDE: Legendary two-time Cup winner’s horse-by-horse verdict and predicted first 4

LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the latest from Cup Day here

Billy Slater can be seen during Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington Racecourse.
Billy Slater can be seen during Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington Racecourse.Source: Getty Images
Gillon McLachlan and Hamish McLachlan can be seen during Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington Racecourse.Source: Getty Images
Allison Langdon poses for a photo during 2026 Melbourne Cup Day.Source: Getty Images
Conor McKenna (L) and Hugh McCluggage of the Brisbane Lions attend the 2026 Melbourne Cup.Source: Getty Images
Zane Duursma and Siena Tainsh pose for a photo during 2026 Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington Racecourse.Source: Getty Images

CUP LATE MAIL: Why every horse can and can’t win

PREDICTIONS: Who the experts and celebrities are backing

LEAD-UP RUNS: All the Aussie and overseas performances you need see

ODDS: Latest Cup betting market and movers

BIGGEST CUP BETS: How billionaire could win a staggering $9.6m after in wild scenes

Swimmer Ariarne Titmus to her partner Mac Powell, Picture: Jason EdwardsSource: News Corp Australia



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