VRC announces new US qualifier for Melbourne Cup Carnival

From 2026, the winner of the USD$750,000 Grade 2 Longines Churchill Distaff Turf Mile (1600m), run on Kentucky Derby Day at Churchill Downs, will gain automatic entry into the TAB Empire Rose Stakes, creating a direct pathway between American and Australian elite fillies and mares.

The initiative forges a new link between the Kentucky Derby Festival and the Melbourne Cup Carnival, reinforcing Flemington’s standing as a truly global racing destination and further enhancing the international appeal of Howden Victoria Derby Day.

VRC Chief Executive Officer Kylie Rogers said the partnership marked an exciting step in strengthening international engagement and encouraging overseas participation in the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

“The Longines Churchill Distaff Turf Mile is a prestigious race, and providing its winner with a guaranteed start in the TAB Empire Rose creates a strong reason for international competitors to target Flemington during the Melbourne Cup Carnival.”

“We’ve already seen the appetite from the United States to compete on the biggest stage, most notably with Parchment Party becoming the first American-trained horse to contest the Lexus Melbourne Cup last year,” Rogers said.

“By creating this international pathway into the TAB Empire Rose Stakes, we’re inviting the world’s best fillies and mares to take their place alongside some of Australia’s best.”

Run over a mile, the Longines Churchill Distaff Turf Mile attracts some of North America’s leading turf performers and has been won by champions of the turf including Tepin, the 2015 American Champion Female Turf Horse and Breeders’ Cup Mile winner.

Churchill Downs welcomed the announcement with Churchill Downs Incorporated President and COO, Bill Mudd said it highlighted the shared ambition of both clubs.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Victoria Racing Club on this international initiative”.

“The Kentucky Derby and the Melbourne Cup are two of racing’s greatest events and we look forward to expanding the partnership of our two iconic institutions”.

The “win and you’re in” initiative reflects the VRC’s ongoing commitment to innovation, international collaboration and showcasing the Melbourne Cup Carnival as a global event.