A hush falls over Cheltenham. Then, a roar. The 2026 Festival has begun, and the energy is palpable, a surge of anticipation rippling through the crowd. Today marks the opening of the biggest week in the National Hunt calendar, a week where legends are forged and dreams are realized.
The day’s racing unfolds with seven compelling contests, beginning with the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. This prestigious race sets the tone, a thrilling curtain-raiser for the days to come. But all eyes are drawn towards the afternoon’s centerpiece: the Champion Hurdle.
This year’s Champion Hurdle carries a unique weight. The absence of the brilliant Constitution Hill has left a void, a space where a new champion must emerge. Last year’s race was marked by dramatic falls of leading contenders, a twist of fate that allowed Golden Ace to seize victory. He returns to defend his crown, but faces a formidable challenge.
Currently, all attention focuses on Dan Skelton’s The New Lion, the early favorite to claim the Champion Hurdle title. The pressure is immense, the expectation high. Can he deliver on the promise and etch his name into Cheltenham history?
Beyond the headline races, a full spectrum of talent will be on display. The Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase promises a thrilling test of speed and stamina, while the Ultima Handicap Chase will showcase the grit and determination of seasoned campaigners. Each race is a story waiting to unfold.
Here’s a glimpse into the day’s competitive landscape, a breakdown of the contenders and their odds:
Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle: Old Park Star (9/4), Mighty Park (10/3), El Cairos (13/2), Talk The Talk (7/1)… and more.
Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase: Kopek Des Bordes (7/4), Lulamba (15/8), Kargese (5/1), Romeo Coolio (7/1)… and others.
Mccoy Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle: Saratoga (11/2), Winston Junior (13/2), Manlaga (7/1), Munsif (10/1)… a crowded field vying for glory.
Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase: Jaguar (7/2), Iroko (6/1), Hyland (8/1), Johnnywho (9/1)… a test of endurance and tactical prowess.
Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy: Lossiemouth (13/8), The New Lion (11/4), Brighterdaysahead (9/2), Golden Ace (10/1)… the battle for supremacy.
Sun Racing Plate Handicap Chase: Madara (7/2), McLaurey (4/1), Down Memory Lane (8/1), Downmexicoway (8/1)… a fiercely competitive handicap.
National Hunt Novices Handicap Chase: Backmersackme (10/3), Newton Tornado (5/1), Wade Out (13/2), Iceberg Theory (13/2)… promising novices looking to make their mark.
As the afternoon progresses, ITV1 and ITVX will broadcast the action live, beginning at 12:45pm. Racing TV will then take over for the final two races, ensuring every moment of drama is captured.
Experts are weighing in with their predictions. Oli Bell suggests Tutti Quanti (22/1) is undervalued in the Champion Hurdle, while Ed Chamberlin is backing Old Park Star (2/1) in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. Newton Tornado (5/1) is also highlighted as a strong contender in the National Hunt Novices Handicap Chase.
The stage is set. The horses are primed. The crowd is roaring. Cheltenham Festival Day 1 is underway, and the pursuit of glory has begun.
