Catch Channel 9’s Melbourne Cup Carnival broadcasts across all four race days.
Channel 9 will launch its live broadcast of the 2024 Melbourne Cup Carnival on Saturday, 2 November, starting with Penfolds Victoria Derby Day from 11:30 am on Channel 9 and 9Now.
The network, which recently secured the rights to broadcast this prestigious event until 2029, is set to bring viewers extensive coverage of all four race days.
This year’s hosting team, selected to deliver comprehensive coverage of both the races and Cup week’s vibrant culture, is led by Eddie McGuire, who will report from Nine’s on-site studio, sharing updates and insights.
James Bracey will handle the action from the Mounting Yard, capturing the thrill of the races as they unfold. Notably, international racing expert Francesca Cumani joins the team to provide her acclaimed commentary across all race days.
Racing analysts Grace Ramage and David Gately are on board to offer detailed insights into the racing form, while Billy Slater will bring exclusive interviews with jockeys right after their wins. Tony Jones will also be stationed in the Mounting Yard to deliver additional interviews and closer looks at the unfolding action.
Former Cup-winning jockey and now Melbourne Cup Carnival ambassador Michelle Payne OAM will contribute her expertise and race-day knowledge to the broadcast. A team reporting live from the Birdcage, including Clint Stanaway, Sylvia Jeffreys, Jelena Dokic, and Olympic gold medallist Jessica Fox, will cover the fashion, glamour, and celebrity buzz that defines this annual celebration.
As a significant element of the Carnival, Fashions on the Field will be prominently featured, showcasing the week’s standout style moments. Viewers can watch this exclusive fashion coverage on 9Now, alongside additional highlights, preview shows, and race replays, available to stream live for fans on the go.
Following Penfolds Victoria Derby Day, the network will continue its Melbourne Cup Carnival coverage with Lexus Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday, 5 November, Crown Oaks Day on Thursday, 7 November, and will wrap up with TAB Champions Stakes Day on Saturday, 9 November.
To further enhance Cup week coverage, 9News Melbourne, Today, and Weekend Today teams, including Alicia Loxley, Tom Steinfort, Karl Stefanovic, Sarah Abo, Clint Stanaway, and Sophie Walsh, will broadcast from Southbank Promenade and Flemington, providing viewers with additional context and stories surrounding this iconic event.
Reflecting on the event and the recent partnership, Brent Williams, 9Network’s Director of Sport, said:
“The Melbourne Cup Carnival is truly unlike any other event and we are thrilled to be bringing this incredible spectacle to all Australians. With our exceptional team and cutting-edge production, we’re ready to deliver the best seats in the house for viewers at home.
This year marks the beginning of an exciting partnership with the Victoria Racing Club and Tabcorp, as we aim to elevate the carnival experience for years to come.”
The partnership agreement between the Victoria Racing Club, Tabcorp, and Nine Entertainment will keep the Melbourne Cup Carnival on Channel 9 from 2024 through 2029, ensuring audiences continued access to one of Australia’s most treasured sporting and cultural events.
