The 2026 Memsie Stakes shapes as a cracking launchpad for the Melbourne Spring Carnival, with Caulfield set to host a deep and genuinely competitive Group 1 field on Saturday.

Treasurethe Moment is back at Caulfield on Saturday to defend her Memsie Stakes crown. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos.

Early Memsie Stakes betting at Ladbrokes has centred on Jimmysstar, who resumes at his favourite track and distance and remains the public elect despite easing slightly in the market.

His narrow Kingsford Smith Cup defeat in Brisbane still reads as elite form from the winter, and strong Sydney trials have him primed to produce a sharp fresh run under his regular rider Ethan Brown.

Even with a touch of hesitation from punters, his Caulfield record and proven 1400m profile keep him firmly at the top of discussions.

The race also welcomes back the evergreen Mr Brightside, lining up for his fourth consecutive Memsie after a win in 2023 and two runner-up finishes since.

Now nine, he continues to defy age and remains one of Australia’s most reliable weight‑for‑age performers.

His recent trial, edging out Giga Kick, confirmed he’s returned in excellent order, and Craig Williams reunites with a horse he has partnered to countless major successes.

At a generous quote of $11 Memsie Stakes odds at time of publish, he looms as the sentimental danger and a genuine winning threat.

Last year’s champion Treasurethe Moment returns aiming to become the first since Behemoth to claim back‑to‑back Memsie titles.

Her Caulfield record is outstanding, her 1400m stats are even better, and her fresh form is rock‑solid.

Damian Lane again takes the reins, and while her trials have been quiet, her class at this circuit is undeniable. She profiles as one of the most appealing value runners in the field.

The early market mover has been Chris Waller’s likely leader Beiwacht, who has tightened noticeably following strong support.

His All Aged Stakes win last preparation stamped him as a genuine 1400m force, and two sharp Warwick Farm trials indicate he’s returned bigger and stronger.

Caulfield is the unknown, but Nash Rawiller’s decision to head south adds confidence.

Sitting just behind the favourite is Cosmic Crusader, who arrives third‑up and in peak condition.

His transition from Perth to Melbourne has been seamless, and his PB Lawrence performance — featuring some of the fastest closing splits — was the ideal Memsie tune‑up.

The wide draw presents a small challenge, but if Willie Pike can find a midfield position with cover, his late strength will make him a major factor.

Waller’s pair Angel Capital and Autumn Boy also sit under double figures.

Angel Capital brings race fitness after a strong Missile Stakes run and looks better suited returning to 1400m, while Autumn Boy — one of last season’s standout three-year-olds — may need further but has the class to make an impact fresh with James McDonald from a soft draw.

With six runners under single figures and several proven Group 1 performers resuming, the 2026 Memsie Stakes promises to be one of the most intriguing spring openers in recent memory.

The 2026 Memsie Stakes is set for Caulfield Race 8 at 4:10pm (AEST) on Saturday. 

2026 Memsie Stakes Field & Barrier Draw