Twenty-four horses will start Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup at Flemington, with each eyeing their place in Australian equine history—along with the $4.5 million first prize.
However history tells us some could have a far better chance than others, thanks to the all-important barrier draw that was held last Saturday.
To help you pick a winner, here are some of the key barrier stats from the last century of Melbourne Cups.
The most successful barrier?
Barrier 11, Eight wins
2025 - Smokin’ Romans (No. 12)
The second most successful barrier?
Barrier 5, Seven Wins
2025 - Chevalier Rose (No. 5)
The least successful barriers?
Barriers 7, 15 and 18, One win
The longest current losing streak?
Barrier 7, Last winner was 1924
2025 - Further (No. 17)
The second longest current losing streak?
Barrier 12, Last winner was 1949
2025 - Buckaroo (No. 2)
Last year’s winning barrier?
Barrier 6 (Knight’s Choice)
2025 - Onesmoothoperator (No. 16)
Melbourne Cup Barrier Form since 1924
| Total wins | Most recent winner |
Barrier 1 | 5 wins | Prince Of Penzance, 2015 |
Barrier 2 | 3 wins | Twilight Payment, 2020 |
Barrier 3 | 3 wins | Media Puzzle, 2002 |
Barrier 4 | 5 wins | Rekindling, 2017 |
Barrier 5 | 7 wins | Fiorente, 2013 |
Barrier 6 | 6 wins | Knight’s Choice, 2024 |
Barrier 7 | 1 win | Blackwood, 1924 |
Barrier 8 | 5 wins | Viewed, 2008 |
Barrier 9 | 4 wins | Efficient, 2007 |
Barrier 10 | 5 wins | Protectionist, 2014 |
Barrier 11 | 8 wins | Americain, 2010 |
Barrier 12 | 2 wins | Foxzami, 1949 |
Barrier 13 | 4 wins | Gold Trip, 2022 |
Barrier 14 | 6 wins | Makybe Diva, 2005 |
Barrier 15 | 1 win | Silver Knight, 1973 |
Barrier 16 | 4 wins | Without A Fight, 2023 |
Barrier 17 | 5 wins | Almandin, 2016 |
Barrier 18 | 1 win | Verry Elleegant, 2021 |
Barrier 19 | 6 wins | Cross Counter, 2018 |
Barrier 20 | 2 wins | Empire Rose, 1988 |
Barrier 21 | 5 wins | Vow And Declare, 2019 |
Barrier 22 | 2 wins | Gurner’s Lane, 1982 |
Barrier 23 | 3 wins | Brew, 2000 |
Barrier 24 | 3 wins | Gala Supreme, 1973 |