Rain is unlikely to affect the running of Tuesday's $6.2 million Melbourne Cup at Flemington.

The weather bureau has forecast a few scattered showers in the morning, clearing before the cup starts at 3pm, with a top temperature of 27.

The track is officially rated a dead four and may become a little harder later in the day, which should suit most of the runners.

This year's race will showcase one of the strongest fields ever to contest the 152-year-old event.

The 24-horse field dominated by internationals, including defending champion and Caulfield Cup winner Dunaden and the 2010 winner Americain.

French star Red Cadeaux is out to avenge last year's one centimetre loss but starts from barrier 18, a gate no horse has won from in the past.

There has been strong support for Dunaden and Americain while Maluckyday is considered the best local chance.

Glen Boss won a cup ride at the last minute when Kellini won the Lexus Stakes last Saturday and if he manages to stage an upset will take out his fourth cup to equal the record for the most wins by a jockey.