A host of new features and sponsors, including a dating app, will give the Melbourne Cup Carnival a fresh and digital face for the 158th running of the iconic race.

The Victoria Racing Club officially launched the Melbourne Cup Carnival yesterday.

Gai Waterhouse’s first Melbourne Cup winner Fiorente is the only favourite to win the race since the last of Makybe Diva’s three victories in 2005.

The race will be held next Tuesday.