Joao Moreira congratulates Kerrin McEvoy as two jockeys cross Melbourne Cup finish line on Heartbreak City, Almandin

HEARTBREAK City jockey Joao Moreira has given the Melbourne Cup a remarkable show of sportsmanship, reaching out to winning rider Kerrin McEvoy as Almandin crossed the line.

Heartbreak City jockey Joao Moreira reaches out to congratulate Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy on Almandin, as the pair cross the line. Picture: Michael Klein

MELBOURNE Cup bridesmaid Joao Moreira is living proof that winning isn’t everything with a remarkable show of sportsmanship as his mount Heartbreak City crossed the finish line.

He had every right to be heartbroken as Almandin beat out Heartbreak City in a neck and neck battle for the Cup, but instead, he reached out to winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy with a congratulatory pat.

MELBOURNE CUP FINISHING ORDER

It was a poignant moment from the Brazilian, who seemed to revel in his opponent’s win.

Heartbreak City jockey Joao Moreira reaches out to congratulate Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Kerrin McEvoy on Almandin, as the pair cross the line. Picture: Michael Klein

Moreira had already saluted earlier in the day on the Gai Waterhouse-trained invincible star.

“She was too quick for everyone in the race,” he said after Race 1.

“She is a talented filly.

“She does everything right.

“Gai Waterhouse is one of the best training talent in town.

“I just did most of the team’s job and I am very proud of it.

“There is no secret.

“You just need to have a good horse.”

MELBOURNE CUP LIVE BLOG

For the record, Almandin won the Cup from Heartbreak City, with favourite Hartnell third and Geelong Cup winner Qewy fourth.