The Melbourne Cup has suffered a major late withdrawal after Irish stayer Defiantly failed a veterinary examination three days before Tuesday’s 3200-metre race at Flemington.
The Joseph O’Brien-trained five-year-old was expected to set the pace and make the contest a demanding test of stamina, having attracted attention in Europe with its front-running style.
Defiantly had shown sensitivity in a hind foot when first examined at Werribee earlier this week. The stable had been hopeful the issue would resolve before a follow-up assessment, but Racing Victoria veterinarians were unable to declare the gelding fit to run.
Its withdrawal means another O’Brien-trained horse, Kizlyar, will take its place in the starting field of 24.
Defiantly was bought by Australian Bloodstock earlier this year with the Melbourne Cup as its main target. The horse is part-owned by media personalities Yvonne Sampson and her husband, Chris O’Keefe.
Dozens of owners, friends and family members had travelled to Melbourne for the race and were said to be devastated by the late scratching.
