Australia’s pecking order at the top of the weight-for-age ranks has shifted as the autumn carnival approaches, with a new standard-bearer emerging in the wake of Via Sistina’s retirement.

Via Sistina signed off in 2025 as the clear standout of Australian racing, her domestic rating of 125 putting daylight between herself and the rest of the country’s elite. She finished the year a full six points clear of her nearest local challengers, underlining just how dominant her run had been before connections elected to call time on a glittering career.

One of the horses closest to her on ratings, Mr Brightside, will play no part in the months ahead. The injury to the rising nine-year-old rules him out for the remainder of the season, removing another established force from the immediate picture and further opening the door at the top.

That leaves Ceolwulf as the highest-rated active galloper in Australia at the start of the autumn. Rated 119 domestically, the Joe Pride-trained star has already built a strong résumé with four Group 1 victories at 1600 metres and now stands in position to consolidate his status. A race such as the Group 1, A$2 million All-Star Mile at Flemington on March 7 looms as a key target, and early markets have installed him as the $3.40 favourite.

Highest-rated Australian horses at the start of 2026 (domestic ratings):

• Via Sistina – 125 (retired)
• Mr Brightside – 119
• Ceolwulf – 119
• Jimmysstar – 118
• Pride Of Jenni – 118
• Sir Delius – 117
• Antino – 116
• Fangirl – 116
• Giga Kick – 116
• Joliestar – 116
• Stefi Magnetica – 116
• Autumn Glow – 115
• Briasa – 115
• Buckaroo – 115
• Gringotts – 115
• Lady Shenandoah – 115
• Treasurethe Moment – 115

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