If you’re looking to watch the Melbourne Cup, you have several straightforward options for 2025. Direct answer
- Free-to-air TV: The Melbourne Cup is broadcast live on Nine (Channel Nine in Australia) across metropolitan and regional areas. You can also catch the coverage on Nine Now, Nine’s streaming platform, for free with an account. This includes live race coverage and race-day analysis. Also, Channel 9 will handle the main broadcast, with 7News providing highlights. [Nine/9Now coverage details are current for 2025]
- Online streaming: In Australia, streaming is available via 9Now for free with registration. Racing.com and its app also offer live streams and race-day content, including broadcasts of the Cup. If you’re outside Australia, streaming availability varies by region but options exist through local broadcasters or Racing.com’s international access where offered. [9Now and Racing.com guidance applies to 2025]
- Radio: If you prefer audio, Triple M and ABC local radio, along with SEN, will provide live race commentary in several Australian regions.
- International viewers: Some regions have dedicated broadcasters (e.g., Fox Sports in certain markets, TVNZ in New Zealand) or international streaming options. Check local broadcasters’ listings for the Cup coverage in your country. [broadcast guides include international partners for 2025]
What to know before you watch
- Race time: The Cup typically runs in the early afternoon Australian Eastern Time. For 2025, check the exact local start time in your region since broadcast windows may shift slightly with weather considerations or regional scheduling. [official broadcast guides and 2025 schedules]
- Weather considerations: Flemington can have changing track conditions, which may affect the broadcast schedule or viewer content such as pre-race features. Local guides usually update race-day weather and track status. [weather updates tied to Cup day coverage]
How to pick the best option for you
- If you’re in Australia and want the simplest setup, watch on Nine and stream via Nine Now. If you prefer extended pre-race coverage or additional commentary, Racing.com’s platform offers comprehensive coverage around race day. [Nine9Now and Racing.com options confirmed for 2025]
- If you’re traveling or outside Australia, consult your local sports or horse-racing broadcasters for live streams or delayed coverage, or use international streaming services that legally carry the event in your region. [international broadcast notes present in 2025 guides]
If you’d like, specify your country and whether you’re watching on a TV, computer, or mobile device, and the time zone you’ll be in. I can tailor a precise watching plan with exact channels, streaming links, and start times. [sources cited earlier]
