Forty horses are still vying for a place in the $10 million Melbourne Cup (3200m) following the third round of declarations on Monday.

The final field will be confirmed after the Victoria Derby Day meeting at Flemington on Saturday.

This year’s list is larger than last year’s 35, with 11 international contenders, including America’s first-ever Cup runner, Parchment Party.

Two-time Cup-winning trainer Joseph O’Brien has Al Riffa and Goodie Two Shoes, while entrants also come from the UK, France, Germany and Japan.

Onesmoothoperator, who claimed the Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m) on Friday, earned a ballot exemption and a 1kg penalty, raising his weight to 53kg.

Caulfield Cup winner Half Yours headlines the locals, aiming to become the 13th horse to complete the Cups double.

Chris Waller has eight runners, including Buckaroo, Valiant King and River Of Stars, while Ciaron Maher holds five, led by Middle Earth and Smokin’ Romans.

Mark Twain, Birdman and Post Impressionist sit on the cusp of the final 24-horse field.