SILKS, SPLENDOUR AND HIGH-SPEED STYLE:
NINE LEADS THE PACK TRACKSIDE IN 2026

Nine has unveiled its 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival Birdcage marquee, Front Runner by Nine, celebrating the energy, elegance and rich tradition of Australia’s greatest racing carnival at Flemington, ahead of four huge days of live and free coverage on Channel 9 and 9Now.

9Network’s’s stellar hosting lineup of Eddie McGuire, James Bracey, Francesca Cumani and Billy Slater were joined by 2025 Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Jamie Melham to showcase the Birdcage marquee.

Designed in collaboration with Ed&Ed, Front Runner by Nine draws inspiration from the colours, geometry and heritage of traditional jockey racing silks dating back to the 18th century. These motifs are brought to life through fluid architecture and a diamond pattern flowing from the main entrance of the marquee to the upstairs lounge, mirroring the speed and rhythm of the track, and reflecting Nine’s legacy of Australian storytelling.

Acclaimed Australian artist Nicole Slater has showcased two magnificent equine pieces: Coco, an acrylic and mixed media tribute to a horse ridden by international polo star Nacho Figueras, and Charlie, the commanding, large-scale portrait of a chestnut thoroughbred from trainer Peter Moody’s Victorian farm.

Bruce Keebaugh and The Big Group have developed a theatrical menu highlighted by silks-inspired grazing platters, mini potato cakes with truffle mayonnaise, dark chocolate raspberry and pistachio fudge, and signature Le Dame Cosmo cocktail garnished in racing patterns. 

Nine will host network stars, commercial partners and VIP guests for the four-day carnival from its premier slate of news, current affairs, sport and entertainment programming, including The Block, Love Island, MAFS, The Golden Bachelor, NRL/NRLW, NBL/NBLW, Today, The Floor, 9News, Australian Open and Footy Classified (AFL) among others within the 9Network.

It all begins with Howden Victoria Derby Day on Saturday, October 31, building towards the 166th running of the Lexus Melbourne Cup on Tuesday, November 3, and continuing through VRC Crown Oaks Day on Thursday, November 5, to TAB Champions Stakes Day on Saturday, November 7, live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Thursday 29 October, 2026