Though the 10,000 capacity at Flemington has now been confirmed for Melbourne Cup Day on November 2, it has been revealed that only 500 places are available for the general public as the members claim the rest.
Organisers of the famous race recently confirmed that crowds are allowed back for the first time since 2019. Although more was hoped for, the 10,000 maximum was expected which leaves little chance for non-members to grab a spot at the track.
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Plans Agreed with Members Benefiting Most
The VRC had to put special plans in place to ensure the safety of all punters before a crowd was allowed. Having satisfied the Victorian government, tickets are being sold with a large chunk going to members.
Some 70%, or 7,000 tickets, are being allocated to VRC members. The majority of the remainder has been set aside for owners of horses entered on the day. Corporate partners and sponsors are also responsible for taking up a large number of spaces.
Just 5% of the tickets available, 500 in total, could be made available for general public sales. Those lucky enough to grab one will have to part with $120 to see what may be an historic Melbourne Cup renewal.
Tickets are due to go on sale in various stages. Members can attempt to get involved from October 26, general admission ticket sales then following on October 29.
Members, Owners and Sponsors Rewarded for Support
While it’s a shame the general public still won’t be quite as involved as before, the split of available tickets is completely understandable.
The loyalty shown by VRC members means they should always get first pick. Owners should naturally be allowed trackside having supported the race too. In terms of prize money and exposure, the Cup wouldn’t be as huge as it is without sponsors or partners.
This is something recognised by the VRC, who can’t wait to welcome people back to Flemington for this historic race. Across the entire Melbourne Cup Carnival, racing is set to be first class and those not lucky enough to be in attendance on November 2 can apply for tickets on other dates.
In staging Melbourne Cup Day with 10,000 in attendance, the VRC are essentially running a trial. Should all be well in the wider Victoria state and the day go off without a hitch, then the same 10,000 capacity could be in force for Oaks Day on November 4, as well as Mackinnon Stakes Day on November 7 which would be great for the sport.
Talks remain fluid on the situation between the Victorian government and the VRC. They may yet lead to the possibility of having an early event trial. This could take place on the opening day of the Carnival, Derby Day on Sunday October 31.
As well as having a vastly reduced capacity, Flemington is also operating an all-reserved seating event on Melbourne Cup Day. No roaming tickets are now allowed. Instead, attendees are separated into three different zones along the course and cannot move between zones.
TV Now So Important
With such a low number of people able to attend Melbourne Cup Day, TV is playing a major part. Channel 10 hosts coverage for the second year, their TenPlay platform allowing strong live streaming of the event online.
Bookmakers and TV stations across the world are also due to show live coverage of the race.
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