Royal Ascot continues to shape the spring as several of its standout performers emerge as possible targets for the Melbourne Cup.

Willie Mullins, who came heartbreakingly close with Max Dynamite in 2015, could return with another talented duo—Ethical Diamond and Sober—after their strong showings in the UK.

Ethical Diamond impressed in the Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap (2414m), posting a Racing and Sports rating of 110.

Meanwhile, Sober, owned by OTI Racing, dominated the Queen Alexandra Stakes (4355m), showcasing the class that earned him Group 2 wins in France last year and a peak rating of 118.

Victoria Racing Club’s Leigh Jordon confirmed Mullins is keen to send both horses down under, but noted ballot and weight requirements remain a factor.

“Ethical Diamond and Sober are both likely (chances),” Jordon said.

Also on the radar is French Master, trained by John & Thady Gosden, who hit a new rating of 113 winning the Copper Horse Handicap—the same race Vauban won en route to last year’s Cup.

Sober is currently a $15 chance, with Ethical Diamond at $18.