The highly anticipated 2026 Cheltenham Festival is set to kick off on March 10, 2026, with an electrifying roar. The Mirror is excited to bring you exclusive coverage of every moment of this thrilling event. This year, in partnership with William Hill, we are offering our readers a complimentary shop bet each day during the festival. Prepare for four days of exhilarating sport as the top national hunt horses from Britain and Ireland go head-to-head, promising an unforgettable Cheltenham experience.
Experts are speculating that British horses will make a strong comeback this year to challenge the recent dominance of Irish contenders. Notable trainers Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott will lead a formidable Irish contingent. The Cheltenham Gold Cup is wide open, with Mullins fielding top contenders like Galopin Des Champs, Fact To File, and Gaelic Warrior. On the British side, The Jukebox Man, trained by Harry Redknapp, leads a competitive lineup that includes Haiti Couleurs and champion jockey Sean Bowen aiming for his first festival victory.
The Champion Hurdle presents an opportunity for last year’s winner, Golden Ace, to shine once again, while the Queen Mother Champion Chase sees a strong favorite in Majborough. Trainer Nicky Henderson is poised to challenge the Irish on the opening day with favorites like Old Park Star in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Lulamba in the Arkle Trophy. Trainer Dan Skelton brings his strongest team yet to the competition. Additionally, jockey Harry Cobden looks to conclude his tenure as Paul Nicholls’ top jockey with a win aboard No Drama This End in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle before transitioning to his new role with JP McManus.
Make sure not to miss out on the Mirror starting from Saturday, March 7, 2026, to stay updated throughout the festival. Take advantage of your complimentary William Hill shop bet from March 10 to March 13, 2026. Also, sign up for our Punter’s Club newsletter for expert insights during Cheltenham and beyond.
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