The Victorian State Government Roadmap out of COVID lockdown will not enable any spectators on course for the Cox Plate at The Valley.

The Moonee Valley Racing Club announced on Tuesday that the Manikato Stakes and Cox Plate double-header meeting to be held on October 22 and 23 will go ahead without crowds.

It comes a day after the Melbourne Racing Club announced the three-day Caulfield Cup carnival would also be spectator free.

Under the State Government’s Roadmap out of COVID spectators will not be permitted to return to racing until 80% of people 16 years old and over are fully vaccinated, forecast for November 5.

Having worked closely with the Department of Health and Human Services over recent weeks, the MVRC was hopeful that it could welcome a small crowd of up to 5000 spectators to The Valley for the Cox Plate Carnival under tight COVID safe controls.

“The Club had hoped that spectators could be welcomed back to racecourses once Victoria reached the 70% fully vaccinated target, which could be achieved in Cox Plate week,” MVRC chief executive Michael Browell said.

“We understand the decision that has been made to wait until 80% full vaccination is achieved is in the best interests of the broader community.

“The Club will now commence planning to welcome our valued members and partners back to The Valley for our race meeting on Friday November 12.

“We now have a target date that we can work towards, and we look forward to seeing spectators back at the track in the not-too-distant future.”