Cheltenham Festival 2026
The Olympics of Jump Racing - Four days of world-class National Hunt action at the Home of Jump Racing
About the Cheltenham Festival
The Cheltenham Festival is the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, attracting the finest jump horses, jockeys, and trainers from Britain and Ireland. Held annually in March at the picturesque Cheltenham Racecourse in the Cotswolds, this four-day extravaganza features 28 races including seven Grade 1 contests.
First held in 1860, the Festival has grown to become one of the most anticipated events in the sporting calendar. The famous "Cheltenham Roar" - the deafening noise that greets the first race on Tuesday - is a moment that gives even the most seasoned racing fans goosebumps.
Each day has a unique theme: Champion Day (Tuesday), Ladies Day (Wednesday), St Patrick's Thursday, and Gold Cup Day (Friday). The week culminates with the blue riband event - the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the ultimate test of stamina and jumping ability over 3 miles 2 furlongs.
Festival Quick Facts
- First Festival 1860
- Duration 4 Days
- Total Races 28
- Grade 1 Races 7
- Daily Attendance ~70,000
- Total Prize Money 6M+
Key Championship Races
Champion Hurdle
2 miles - The supreme test of speed over hurdles. The Champion Hurdle crowns the best two-mile hurdler in training.
Queen Mother Champion Chase
2 miles - The ultimate two-mile chase, named in honour of the Queen Mother. Pure speed and precision jumping.
Stayers' Hurdle
3 miles - The championship for staying hurdlers, testing stamina, jumping, and tactical awareness over the longer trip.
Cheltenham Gold Cup
3m 2f - The blue riband of National Hunt racing. The ultimate test to find the best staying chaser in training.
Best Bookmakers for Cheltenham Betting
Bet365
Best Odds Guaranteed + ITV Races Extra Places
- Live streaming all races
- Early prices available
- Cheltenham specials
Betfair
Exchange Betting + 0% Commission Day
- Best exchange odds
- Lay betting available
- Cash out feature
Paddy Power
Money Back as Cash on 2nd Place
- Price boosts daily
- Irish expertise
- Festival specials
William Hill
Extra Places on All Festival Races
- Enhanced each-way terms
- Free bet club
- Acca insurance
Cheltenham Betting Tips & Strategies
Expert Betting Tips
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Follow the Irish - Irish-trained horses have dominated recent Festivals. Pay attention to Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott runners.
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Ground Conditions Matter - Cheltenham's undulating track can be testing. Check going preferences before backing.
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Each-Way Value - With large fields, each-way betting offers protection. Look for 6+ runner races with enhanced place terms.
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Festival Experience - Previous Cheltenham form is crucial. Horses that handle the track and atmosphere are invaluable.
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Ante-Post Markets - Bet early for best prices, but be aware of non-runner stakes lost.
Popular Cheltenham Bet Types
- Each-Way Singles - Back for win and place
- Lucky 15/31/63 - Multiple selections with bonuses
- Festival Accumulators - Combine daily selections
- Top Trainer/Jockey - Season-long markets
- Ante-Post - Early prices months in advance
Prof. Gerry's Tip: "The Cheltenham hill catches out many horses in the closing stages. Always look for proven stamina - a horse that finishes strongly up the hill is worth its weight in gold!"
Recent Gold Cup Winners
| Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer | SP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Galopin Des Champs | Paul Townend | Willie Mullins | 4/6F |
| 2024 | Galopin Des Champs | Paul Townend | Willie Mullins | 6/5F |
| 2023 | Galopin Des Champs | Paul Townend | Willie Mullins | 5/2F |
| 2022 | A Plus Tard | Rachael Blackmore | Henry de Bromhead | 3/1JF |
| 2021 | Minella Indo | Jack Kennedy | Henry de Bromhead | 9/1 |