In response to the hot weather forecast for New Year’s Day, the iconic Perth Cup will now run as a twilight fixture at Ascot Racecourse, with the race program reduced from nine to seven races. The first race is now scheduled for 3.37pm.

Racing WA Chief Racing Officer David Hunter stated that decisions are guided by Racing WA’s hot weather policies, which prioritise the wellbeing of all involved.

“Our policies are designed to protect the welfare of racing animals and participants, with flexibility to adjust scheduling based on the forecast,” David said.

“Racing WA stewards and veterinarians have been in direct contact with the duty forecaster, and with temperatures expected to be 38°C or higher until later in the day, it was necessary to reduce the number of races to enable a later start time when temperatures are expected to ease and continue to fall.”

Updated timings

Racing WA stewards will continue to monitor weather conditions closely, maintaining direct communication with the Bureau of Meteorology both in the lead-up to the raceday and during the event. Should there be any significant changes to the forecast, further adjustments to the schedule may be required.