Champions Stakes: Every Runner Breakdown, Tips, and Predicted Finishing Order

The $3 million Champions Stakes (2000m) headlines the Melbourne Cup carnival finale, and we’ve locked in our best and value plays for punters in a race packed with Group 1 class.

Our experts have crunched the data, mapped every scenario, and pinpointed which runners are ready to peak on the big stage. Don’t miss our best bet, and value selections at the bottom — they could be the key to unlocking a serious collect this weekend.

1. Tom Kitten — 59kg — Barrier 8

Why he can win

A two-time Group 1 winner who’s struck form again and finds his pet distance.

Why he can’t win

Faces tough rivals and hasn’t put them away this prep.

Summary: Class runner suited back to Flemington — predicted 3rd | Betr: $9 win / $2.25 place – Bet Here

2. Light Infantry Man — 59kg — Barrier 3

Why he can win

Has run strong races in the Cox Plate and Hill Stakes; loves the big track.

Why he can’t win

May lack the finishing burst against sharper rivals.

Summary: Genuine WFA performer — predicted 4th | Betr: $11 win / $2.45 place – Bet Here

3. Kovalica — 59kg — Barrier 2

Why he can win

Proven Group 1 performer who’ll appreciate a strong tempo.

Why he can’t win

Needs to find more at the top level and can be one-paced late.

Summary: Honest stayer who keeps grinding — predicted 6th | Betr: $17 win / $3.40 place – Bet Here

4. Attrition — 59kg — Barrier 5

Why he can win

Held his own in the Cox Plate and can be prominent on speed.

Why he can’t win

Yet to prove he runs a strong 2000m at this level.

Summary: Solid but a shade below elite — predicted 8th | Betr: $16 win / $3.30 place – Bet Here

5. Alenquer — 59kg — Barrier 11

Why he can win

Found form last start and has solid overseas staying credentials.

Why he can’t win

Faces a big class rise and hasn’t won in years.

Summary: Capable roughie for exotics — predicted 10th | Betr: $51 win / $5.50 place – Bet Here

6. Pier — 59kg — Barrier 6

Why he can win

Flying under the radar after a good Sydney prep; handles all ground.

Why he can’t win

Untested beyond the mile and faces the toughest field yet.

Summary: Smart galloper but distance query — predicted 9th | Betr: $12 win / $2.60 place – Bet Here

7. Golden Path — 59kg — Barrier 4

Why he can win

Proven Flemington performer who stays well and can take up a spot.

Why he can’t win

May lack the class of the top-liners late.

Summary: Honest and competitive — predicted 7th | Betr: $19 win / $3.60 place – Bet Here

8. Point King — 59kg — Barrier 1

Why he can win

Talented stayer who improves second-up and loves Flemington.

Why he can’t win

Back to 2000m may be short of his best trip.

Summary: Strong late, needs tempo — predicted 5th | Betr: $41 win / $5.50 place – Bet Here

9. Zambardo — 58.5kg — Barrier 9

Why he can win

Progressive type on a winning streak and steps up with confidence.

Why he can’t win

Big jump in grade and faces seasoned Group 1 stars.

Summary: Rising star who can surprise — predicted 2nd | Betr: $15 win / $3.30 place – Bet Here

10. Via Sistina — 57kg — Barrier 10

Why she can win

World-class mare and Cox Plate winner who’s flying this prep.

Why she can’t win

Nothing much against her — just needs to handle the quick backup.
Summary: The benchmark — predicted 1st | Betr: $1.70 win / $1.16 place – Bet Here

11. Benagil — 56.5kg — Barrier 7

Why she can win

Talented mare with Oaks-winning form and handles all conditions.

Why she can’t win

Faces elite older horses and backing up off seven days.

Summary: Classy 4yo but finds this tough — predicted 11th | Betr: $20 win / $3.70 place – Bet Here

Best Bet:

Via Sistina ($1.70 win / $1.16 place with Betr) — World-class mare at her peak, perfectly placed at WFA – Bet Here

Value Bet:

Zambardo ($15 win / $3.30 place with Betr) — Improving with every run, tough and progressive – Bet Here