The highly anticipated Cheltenham Festival of 2026 is set to kick off on March 10, 2026, accompanied by the renowned roar, and the Mirror will be there to capture every exhilarating moment. This year, in partnership with William Hill, we are offering our readers a complimentary shop bet each day of the festival. Over four days, spectators will witness top national hunt horses from Britain and Ireland competing fiercely. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you in your favorite racing publication:
Experts are suggesting a potential resurgence of UK horses this season, challenging the recent dominance of Irish contenders. Notable trainers Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott are leading a formidable Irish contingent. The Cheltenham Gold Cup appears wide open, with Mullins boasting three of the top five contenders, including dual winner Galopin Des Champs, Fact To File, and Gaelic Warrior. However, the British side, spearheaded by Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man, is poised for a strong challenge, featuring Haiti Couleurs and champion jockey Sean Bowen vying for his first festival victory.
The Champion Hurdle presents an opportunity for last year’s champion, Golden Ace, to create another upset, while the Queen Mother Champion Chase sees a formidable favorite in Majborough. Trainer Nicky Henderson could steal the spotlight from the Irish on the first day with top picks Old Park Star in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Lulamba in the Arkle Trophy. Additionally, Dan Skelton is bringing his strongest team ever to the event. As Harry Cobden concludes his final Cheltenham as the primary jockey for Paul Nicholls, he aims to clinch a victory with No Drama This End in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle before transitioning to his new role for JP McManus.
Ensure you do not miss out – grab your copy of the Mirror starting from Saturday, March 7, 2026, to stay updated throughout the festival. Also, take advantage of your complimentary William Hill shop bet from Tuesday, March 10, until Friday, March 13, 2026. Additionally, subscribe to our free Punter’s Club newsletter for valuable insights directly to your inbox during Cheltenham and beyond.
Mirror readers have the chance to back a winning horse by joining our complimentary racing club.
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