German and French challengers have to overcome tough draws

Andreas Wohler knows exactly what is required to win a Melbourne Cup but Red Cardinal is not cut from the same cloth as 2014 winner Protectionist according to the top German trainer, who admits stall 24 will be a tough place to come from.

"Protectionist was something special. He was a very tough character whereas Red Cardinal is a bit more sensible," said Wohler.

He added: "He does run well fresh but he has to overcome not having a prep run and a bad draw. It will be a big task. I heard there has only been one winner from the outside draw, but I do think we have the right jockey [Kerrin McEvoy] on him for that draw."

Tiberian, who is drawn in stall 23, prepares for his Flemington missionCredit: Michael Dodge

Tiberian on the rise

Tiberian and Olivier Peslier will try to do the business for France.

Trained by Alain Couetil, who spent 15 years working for Andre Fabre, the five-year-old is on the up having won a Group 3 and a Group 2 on his last two stars at Deauville, but stall 23 will make a first Group 1 success an arduous task.

Peslier said: "He had a nice summer. The horse is very well and is in good form. He likes to gallop. I won't tell you exactly what my plan is as I don't want anybody to copy me. I can watch everybody from my stall, I'm like a steward. I hope it's a good, clean race and we can stay out of trouble.

"The guy who rides him out in the morning says he's very, very well. We have a very good team with the horse."

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