Irish sprinter Slade Power is ready for one last test - against Australia's best - as he bids to cap his career in the Group One Darley Classic at Flemington.

International horses have claimed the three biggest races in Melbourne this spring but trainer Ed Lynam is under no illusions about the task ahead for Slade Power.

Slade Power will be having his final start before being retired to stand at Darley's Kildangan Stud in Ireland.

"This probably seems a bit mad, bringing an Irish sprinter to Australia, given the history of Australian sprinters," Lynam said.

"But he's champion European (sprinter) and I think before he retires he's entitled to take on the top sprinters in Australia and see how we go."

Slade Power has won the Group One Diamond Jubilee at Royal Ascot and the July Cup at Newmarket this year and Lynam said the sprinter would be sorely missed once he's retired.

"Today was the last day he rode out for us. We bred him. We love the horse," he said.

"He's been a huge part of our career."

Up-and-comer Chautauqua is a clear-cut favourite for the $1 million sprint after two impressive wins in good time in lesser grade over the course and distance.

Next pick Lankan Rupee won the Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley last start in a return to winning form.

He is out to add the Darley Classic to his Newmarket Handicap win at Flemington from the autumn.

Slade Power missed a preparation run in Europe in September and while Lynam said it was probably a huge ask coming to Australia and winning, there would be no excuses.

"We're not afraid to lose. We'll compete," Lynam said.

Slade Power, who has his issues at the barriers, has gate four and Racing Victoria's chief steward Terry Bailey has said the horse will be loaded in the order that is used in Australia, not last as had been requested.

He will wear a blindfold in the stalls with stewards allowing it to be removed by jockey Wayne Lordan.

"I've talked to the people at Racing Victoria, they're well aware of this horse and what has to happen with him and they've satisfied me that his safety won't be an issue tomorrow. So I trust them," Lynam said.