Where To Bet on Perth Cup

Race Details:

Date: 2027.01.01
Grade: 2
Open To: Horses Aged Three Years and Older
Track: Turf
Length: 2,400 Metres
Location: Ascot Racecourse, Western Australia


The Perth Cup is one of the biggest horse races of the year in Australia and takes place at the start of each New Year.

The race, a Perth Racing Group 2 Thoroughbred event run under quality handicap conditions, is held at Ascot Racecourse. Ascot is a left handed turf track measuring 2,400 metres.

The race is open to horses aged three years and older and offers a substantial purse, reflecting its status in Western Australia's summer racing calendar.


2026 Winner:

Apulia
Jockey: William Pike
Trainer: Ben, Will and JD Hayes

Apulia produced a commanding performance to win the 2026 Perth Cup at Ascot, leading home a competitive field under topweight conditions. Ridden by experienced jockey William Pike, the son of Melbourne Cup winner Fiorente controlled the race despite heavy handicap burden, demonstrating staying strength and tactical speed to claim the prestigious Group 2 feature.


History:

First run in 1887, the Perth Cup is a cornerstone of Western Australia's racing and social calendar. It has been a Group 2 event for many years and is sponsored by major local racing partners, drawing quality stayers from across the nation. Over its long history, the race has evolved but remained synonymous with New Year racing celebration and competitive depth.


Betting Odds and Tips:

The Perth Cup attracts strong betting interest on New Year's Day, with popular wagers including Win, Place, Each Way, Exacta, and Trifecta.

Track conditions at Ascot in January are often firm, favouring horses with proven stamina over 2,400 metres. Key betting considerations include weight allocations due to the handicap format, proven performance in staying races, and recent race fitness.

Local jockey experience and familiarity with Ascot's unique track are regularly cited factors in betting markets. The performance of Hemlock Stone in 2025 and Apulia in 2026 highlighted the race's openness and the value of tactical stamina.


Fun Fact:

Until 2009, the Perth Cup was run over 3,200 metres. The modern 2,400 metre distance has shifted the race from a pure stamina test to a blend of tactical pace, endurance, and positional speed.


Key Takeaways:

The Perth Cup remains one of Western Australia's premier staying races, kicking off the New Year with elite competition.

Stamina, strategic positioning, and handicap placement are crucial factors for success.

The event provides excellent betting opportunities and remains a highlight of the Australian summer racing calendar.

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