Makybe Diva, 3-Time Melbourne Cup Winner, Dies at 27

Legendary horse Makybe Diva passes away

Legendary Australian racing mare Makybe Diva passes away, remembered for historic Melbourne Cup wins. Makybe Diva, the only horse to win three consecutive Melbourne Cups, dies aged 27 after a bout of colic.

Makybe Diva, iconic three-time Melbourne Cup winner, dies at 27 due to gastrointestinal issues...

Makybe Diva, the legendary horse that made history with three consecutive Melbourne Cup wins, has passed away at 27. The champion mare suffered a sudden bout of colic, a gastrointestinal issue, and didn't make it.

The news was confirmed by her long-time owner Tony Santic, who shared the sad loss. Makybe Diva was more than just a horse - she transcended the sport and will be deeply missed.

She made history as the first horse to win three Melbourne Cups in a row, cementing her legacy in the racing world.

“Makybe Diva was more than a champion -- she truly transcended the sport of racing,” Victoria Racing Club chairman Neil Wilson said in a statement.

“Her three consecutive Melbourne Cup victories stand among the most iconic achievements in Australian sporting history, and the memories she created will never be forgotten.”

One of the greatest race horses of all time, MAKYBE DIVA, has sadly passed away 🕊️

She is still to this day the only horse to win three Melbourne Cups, and in an incredible three consecutive years from 2003-2005 🏆

There may never be another one like her, and we will miss her… pic.twitter.com/j3PgqNle0S

— World Horse Racing (@WHR) February 28, 2026

Born in Britain, Makybe Diva was the star of the show, partnering with jockey Glen Boss to make history at the Melbourne Cup - Australia's iconic event. She dominated the “race that stops a nation“ from 2003 to 2005, earning iconic status Down Under.

Her record remains unmatched - no horse has won three consecutive Melbourne Cups before or since her reign. Makybe Diva's legacy continues to inspire.

Mourners including legendary racecaller Greg Miles lay flowers at the statue of Makybe Diva at Flemington Racecourse on Saturday | GETTY IMAGE

Makybe Diva retired straight after her third Melbourne Cup win, wrapping up a career of 36 starts and 15 wins. Her wins included top races like the Cox Plate, BMW Stakes, Memsie Stakes, and Turnbull Stakes.

“From the day she came into our lives, she was never just a racehorse, she was family,” said Santic.

“She gave us moments Australia will never forget, but more than that, she gave us joy every single day.”