The 2026 Melbourne Cup is set to capture attention as it approaches 4am GMT on Tuesday morning, coinciding with a public holiday in Victoria. In a thrilling prelude, influential owner JP McManus has already made headlines with significant betting actions during the prestigious “Call Of The Card” luncheon, an event that has been part of the Melbourne Cup's tradition since 1958.

At the luncheon, attendees, including McManus and fellow owner Paul Byrne, witnessed four leading bookmakers face off against a sell-out crowd of 1,000. The excitement mounted as runners were introduced, with Hopewell Rock, a recent Ebor Handicap runner-up, attracting immediate attention. Byrne boldly declared intentions to break last year’s record bet of A$500k, aiming for a A$1 million win.

Key betting highlights include:

• A$500k laid at 9-1 for Hopewell Rock
• Additional bets on James J Braddock at A$150k (20-1)
• McManus's own horses, Trustyourinstinct and Goodie Two Shoes, also featured in their wagers.

McManus expressed excitement about the event, noting its uniqueness and potential lessons for betting cultures elsewhere, particularly in Britain and Ireland, where restrictions often hinder punters. He remarked, “I certainly enjoyed it. It’s exciting... I only wish they would do it elsewhere.”

Contrastingly, the UK faces challenges with illegal gambling, as many punters experience account restrictions when they show profit potential. Australia’s Minimum Bet Limits (MBL), requiring bookmakers to accept larger bets, contrasts sharply with the UK, where many bettors are turned away.

As Australia prepares to lead in gambling regulation by 2027, its approach could serve as a vital reference for the UK government when revising the Gambling Act 2005, especially in distinguishing between harmful gambling forms and sports betting.