A field of nine has been confirmed for Saturday’s 2025 Cox Plate at Moonee Valley, with defending champion and race favourite Via Sistina drawing barrier five for trainer Chris Waller and jockey James McDonald.
McDonald, aiming for a fourth consecutive Cox Plate victory and a second on Via Sistina, said he was pleased with the draw.
“It seems alright for her, so hopefully we get a bit of luck and she can show her wares,” McDonald told Racing.com. “She feels excellent. She loves The Valley, so that’s a really good sign.”
Via Sistina will start alongside key rival Antino, who drew barrier six.
ATC Australian Derby winner Aeliana will jump from barrier eight while Australian Cup victor Light Infantry Man will start from the outside gate in nine.
Via Sistina is one of two runners for Yulong, whose colours will also be carried by Damian Lane aboard Treasurethe Moment.
While Via Sistina galloped at Moonee Valley on Tuesday morning during a Breakfast With The Best trackwork session, Treasurethe Moment remained at Mornington under trainer Matt Laurie’s supervision.
Most bookmakers have Via Sistina as the $2 favourite, ahead of Antino at $3.50 and Treasurethe Moment at $8.