![Chris Waller-trained Asterix has been scratched from the Melbourne Cup after stewards established the horse had received a topical treatment on race morning. [Bradley Photos]](https://betsy.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2287539.jpg)
Melbourne Cup runner Asterix has been scratched by stewards on the morning of the race over potential race day treatment.
Jye McNeil was due to ride the Chris Waller runner, however stewards ordered its withdrawal on Tuesday morning.
Stewards said it had been established that Asterix “was found to have had the medication Penetrene administered to both forelegs in its stable on race morning”, which is prohibited under the rules of racing.
“Acting on a report from the Racing Victoria (RV) Compliance Assurance Team (CAT), RV Stewards today interviewed trainer Chris Waller, after it had been established that Asterix, which was engaged to compete in Race 7 at Flemington, the Lexus Melbourne Cup, was found to have had the medication Penetrene administered to both forelegs in its stable on race morning,” stewards said in a statement on Tuesday.
“Penetrene is a topical product marketed as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic liniment. Penetrene is used topically on horses for symptomatic relief of muscle strains, sprains and muscle soreness.
“Any substance administered to a horse on raceday, including any topical application amongst any other route of administration is considered a medication.
“Evidence was taken from Mr Waller, members of his stable staff, Mr Tim George (RV CAT) and Dr Edwina Wilkes (RV Regulatory Veterinarian).
“Subsequently acting under AR 249 (3), Stewards ordered the withdrawal of Asterix at 10.33am.
“Stewards will continue their inquiries into the circumstances with Mr Waller later today.”
