Public opinion on the Melbourne Cup is shifting dramatically, with a record decline in interest among Australians. A recent poll reveals that over two-thirds now report little to no engagement with the event, down from nearly half the previous high in 2025. Concerns over gambling culture and animal welfare are cited as key factors behind the waning enthusiasm. The once-popular race, often called the "Sport of Kings," is facing growing scrutiny over its societal and ethical implications.
Growing disdain for gambling and animal cruelty concerns drive sliding interest in race that once ‘stopped the nation’Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastA record number of Australians are turning their backs on the Melbourne Cup, with more than two-thirds surveyed saying they have low or zero interest in the annual horse race.Support for the Melbourne Cup has been sliding consistently for a number of years, but the Guardian Essential poll found just 9% of Australians said they had high interest in the race now – nearly half the proportion in 2025. Continue reading...
