Americain, the French horse with Australian owners will be heading down under again this year to defend his Melbourne Cup crown.

In 2010, Americain became the first European trained winner of the cup since Media Puzzle saluted for Dermott Weld in 2002.

Last year, French trainer Alain Royer-Dupre gave his horse four starts in France before he was shipped to Australia, however it appears as if the horse will have a lighter campaign before coming to Australia this year.

“He needs time now and is going to have two races at Deauville before coming to Australia,” said Royer-Dupre.

Last year Americain started his Melbourne Cup preparation in June and won three of his four French starts before coming to Australia in early October where he had one start (in the Geelong Cup – which he won) before going on to the Melbourne Cup. He then went on to Hong Kong which appears unlikely to happen again this year.

“It was difficult for him to travel to Melbourne and then Hong Kong.” Royer-Dupre said.

Americain carried 54.5kgs when he beat So You Think and Maluckyday in the 2010 Melbourne Cup, however he is likely to receive more weight this year, not that that is a concern for Royer-Dupre.

“We will try again. It was a very special day when he won in Australia.” Royer-Dupre said.

At this stage it is unclear whether French jockey Gerald Mosse will again travel to Australia to partner Americain.

Americain is rated a $17.00 chance in all-in markets for the 2011 Melbourne Cup. Shamrocker and Maluckyday are equal favourites at $14.00, while So You Think is rated a $26.00 chance.