Horse Racing Tips for the Makybe Diva Stakes 2025

With 24 Group 1 victories between the six-horse field, the 2025 edition of the Makybe Diva Stakes may be small in numbers but it oozes class.

The heavyweight clash between Via Sistina and Mr Brightside sets the stage for a fascinating tactical affair.

Add in Tom Kitten and Antino, both proven at the top level, plus the lightly raced up-and-comers Aeliana and Mark Twain, and punters are set for an enthralling 1600m battle at Flemington.

This is not just another Group 1, it’s a race where tactics will be everything.

You can get my full set of tips for racing this Saturday via the link below.

 

Makybe Diva Stakes 2025 Horse Racing Tips and Best Bets

 

Track Conditions

Flemington is rated a Good 4, and with no rain forecast, conditions should remain ideal on race day.

The rail is in the True position, ensuring fair racing across the card with every runner getting their chance.

 

 

Speed Map & Race Shape

With no natural leader in the field, Mr Brightside is likely to roll forward under Craig Williams and control the tempo.

Aeliana will be ridden positively to sit close, keeping the champ honest, while Via Sistina stalks midfield with James McDonald keeping her within striking distance.

Tom Kitten won’t be far away, while Antino and Mark Twain are expected to settle rearward.

Blake Shinn on Antino may look to apply mid-race pressure. A tactic we’ve seen him use to devastating effect, which could flip the race on its head.

 

Selections & Analysis

1st – #5 Via Sistina $1.80

Hard to tip against the champ.

Whether Mr Brightside controls the tempo or Antino makes an early move, Via Sistina has the turn of foot and the class to handle all scenarios.

McDonald will have her in the right spot, and the long Flemington straight plays perfectly into her strengths.

She carries a Winx-like aura and opposing her feels like wishing for a miracle.

 

 

2nd – #3 Antino $8.00

If you want value, Antino is the one.

Expect Shinn to press the button mid-race, which not only suits his mount but also ensures a genuine test for the others.

He can surge to the front at the 300m and give punters a big thrill, though Via Sistina should run him down late.

The place bet is the smarter play.

 

3rd – #1 Mr Brightside $5.50

Written off too quickly by some last start, Mr Brightside again showed his trademark fight when beaten by emerging star Treasurethe Moment.

Second-up has always been his sweet spot (6 wins from 8), and if Antino doesn’t inject pace, he’ll give Via Sistina something to chase.

The long straight may just find him out late.

 

4th – #6 Aeliana $4.20

The exciting 4YO mare lost no admirers when stretching Via Sistina first-up in the Winx Stakes.

However, she produced a flat run second-up over this trip in the autumn, which is a slight concern.

Look for her to peak later in the spring, but she remains one to watch.

 

Top Four:

1. Via Sistina

2. Antino

3. Mr Brightside

4. Aeliana

 

For thousands more tips including free selections for today's racing, head to Australia's best racing tips market at thegreattipoff.com.