Point of Law claims Melbourne Cup victory for jockey Ethan Brown and trainer Ciaron Maher

Point of Law won the 2026 Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse, delivering victory in Australia's most prestigious race for jockey Ethan Brown and trainer Ciaron Maher. The three-year-old stallion, previously owned by King Charles until it was purchased by an Australian syndicate in August, entered the feature race as an early favourite. The victory marks the second time Maher has overseen a winner in the event.

During the race, Royal Supremacy—another horse trained by Maher—built a significant lead of up to 20 lengths. Brown maintained his composure on Point of Law, guiding the horse from the middle of the pack before overtaking the leaders on the home stretch. Brown described the win as a dream come true, telling broadcasters that the horse possesses exceptional talent and potential.

Maher achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first trainer to secure the trifecta in the race, entering a record seven horses on Tuesday. Following Point of Law in first place, Zahrann finished second and Juja Kibo finished third, with the Joseph O’Brien-trained Sons and Lovers taking fourth place. Maher noted that while he did not anticipate Royal Supremacy establishing such a large early lead, the race proved to be a true test of stamina that suited Point of Law.

For Brown, the triumph represents a major career milestone following a severe racing incident three years ago. The jockey spent six months away from the sport and recovering in hospital after a serious fall during the 2023 Australian Guineas at Flemington, an accident he noted left him close to losing his life before he decided to return to riding.

The Melbourne Cup, historically running since 1861, carries a prize pool of A$10.2 million. Alongside the sporting competition, tens of thousands of spectators attended the Flemington event under sunny conditions, where they also watched pre-race entertainment featuring UK pop star Robbie Williams accompanied by a 10-piece band, backup dancers, and pyrotechnics.