Melbourne Cup 2025 can be watched online through a mix of free-to-air streams, official live streams, and international broadcasters depending on your location. Here’s a clear guide to ensure you can catch the race online wherever you are. What time to watch
- The Melbourne Cup typically runs in the early afternoon AEDT on race day, with live coverage starting around the pre-race build-up and continuing through the main event. Check local listings for exact start times in your region.
Where to watch online by region
- Australia: Free-to-air and streaming options include Channel 9 and 9Now for live coverage, with Racing.com also offering streaming for the Carnival.
- New Zealand: TVNZ1 and TVNZ+ provide live streams.
- United States: Fox Sports generally carries the event, with some streams available via corresponding apps or partner services.
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Racing typically covers the event; check availability on your Sky package or streaming app.
- Ireland: Virgin Media/Virgin Media Play (FREE) sometimes carries coverage; confirm local availability.
- Canada: Sportsnet offers coverage where available.
- Other regions: International rights vary; licensed broadcasters or streaming platforms in the local market will carry the race. If abroad, you may need a local broadcaster or a streaming service with international rights.
How to watch from abroad
- If you’re traveling or located outside your home country, using a reputable VPN can help you access your home broadcaster’s online stream where geo-restrictions apply. Choose a well-regarded provider and ensure it complies with the streaming service’s terms of use.
Technical tips for a smooth stream
- Use a stable internet connection (at least 5–10 Mbps for HD streaming, higher for 4K if available).
- If a service blocks you due to regional restrictions, try switching to a regional server via a VPN (where permitted by law and the service’s terms).
- Ensure your streaming app or browser is updated before race time to avoid last-minute issues.
What to consider before you watch
- Weather and track conditions can affect coverage lines and broadcast times, so verify current race-day details and broadcast schedules close to the event.
- If you rely on a free-to-air option, be aware there may be regional blackout or regional availability rules. In many regions, official streaming platforms provide a reliable alternative.
Bottom line
- You can watch Melbourne Cup 2025 online via free-to-air streams in Australia (9Now), NZ (TVNZ), and other local broadcasters depending on your country (Fox Sports in the US, Sky Sports Racing in the UK, Sportsnet in Canada, etc.). For viewers outside these regions, check the official Melbourne Cup broadcasters or use an eligible streaming service available in your country, and consider a VPN only where legally permitted to access your home coverage.
