Champions Stakes Day 2025: Via Sistina Faces New Test at Flemington
The stage is set for one of the most thrilling days in Australian horse racing — TAB Champions Stakes Day 2025 — and all eyes are once again on the incredible mare, Via Sistina. The Lexus Melbourne Cup Carnival reaches its grand finale at Flemington this Saturday, with three elite Group 1 races lined up: the Champions Sprint, the Champions Mile, and the main event — the $3 million TAB Champions Stakes over 2000 meters.
James McDonald, Australia’s star jockey, will once again partner with Via Sistina, fresh off their breathtaking Cox Plate victory just a couple of weeks ago. That Cox Plate win was one for the ages — McDonald lifted the champion mare to a thrilling finish over stablemate Buckaroo, igniting the Moonee Valley crowd. Now, she’s back to defend her crown in the Champions Stakes, but this time the conditions may not be quite in her favor.
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McDonald, however, remains calm and confident. Despite drawing wide in gate 10 of 11 and with rain expected at Flemington, he insists he wouldn’t have it any other way. “I’d rather be there than one,” he said, suggesting that her ability to handle softer ground could play in their favor. Still, he admits there’s one concern — her last poor run came right here at Flemington, on a rain-affected track. “As long as she can get her toe into it and not be skatey, she’s fine,” he added, backing her class to shine through.
Form expert David Gately agrees, calling Via Sistina “the best horse in the country” but acknowledging a small question mark over whether she’s quite at her 2024 peak. “She was dominant winning this last year,” Gately said. “But maybe she’s a length or two off that form.” Still, he’s sticking with her as the standout. Her biggest threat? Tom Kitten — a horse that’s been building nicely through this prep and could be primed to challenge.
Meanwhile, the $3 million Champions Mile is shaping up as a race for the ages, with fan-favorite Pride Of Jenni clashing again with Mr Brightside. Gately believes it’s the “race of the year,” but he’s tipping Ceolwulf as a sneaky chance to upset the stars.
Over the shorter 1200m trip, the Champions Sprint promises fireworks too. Tentyris, the Coolmore Stud Stakes winner, leads the market, but McDonald rides Joliestar — a proven performer who won the Newmarket earlier this year and looks ready to strike again.
As anticipation builds, there’s a buzz around the course — from seasoned champions to emerging names like Zambardo, who’s rocketed from long odds to a genuine contender after four straight wins. Whether it’s the speed, stamina, or sheer drama, Stakes Day is poised to deliver everything racing fans could ask for — and perhaps a new chapter in Via Sistina’s already legendary career.
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