Via Sistina is now set to race in the Makybe Diva Stakes on Saturday at Flemington.
The change of plan sets up a mouth-watering rematch with stablemate, Aeliana, after the pair ran one-two in the Winx Stakes first up.
Originally set to race in the 7 Stakes at Randwick next week, plans have changed with the illness of fellow Yulong horse Treasurethe Moment.
Via Sistina’s trainer Chris Waller also confirmed James McDonald will reunite with the Cox Plate champion.
“Via Sistina will not trial this morning and will instead race in the Maybe Diva Stakes this Saturday at Flemington,” Waller said. “She galloped well this morning, and I am happy with her fitness levels. James McDonald will take the ride, and Aeliana will be ridden by Damian Lane.”
It comes after revelations on Monday from Treasurethe Moment’s trainer Matt Laurie that the mare has a mild case of colic and is out of the Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington on Saturday – and her Cox Plate tilt could be in doubt.
Yulong, Waller and Laurie had agreed on a spring program for the pair in a bid to avoid clashes ahead of a Cox Plate showdown.
*** Via Sistina *** pic.twitter.com/XY4PkrCriY
— Chris Waller Racing (@cwallerracing) September 8, 2025
