Cheltenham Festival 2026 Kicks Off with Champion Day's Seven Races
Cheltenham Festival 2026: Champion Day's Seven Races

Cheltenham Festival 2026 Commences with Champion Day's Seven Races

The 2026 Cheltenham Festival is set to launch on Tuesday afternoon, marking the start of Champion Day at this prestigious horse racing event. This four-day meeting at the iconic Cheltenham venue will feature seven races each day, offering a packed schedule for enthusiasts and competitors alike.

Today's Race Schedule at Cheltenham Festival

The action kicks off at 1.20pm GMT with the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, setting the tone for an exciting day of racing. Following this, the Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Steeple Chase will begin at 2pm, with the McCoys Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle Race scheduled for 2.40pm.

At 3.20pm, the Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase will take place, leading up to the headline event of the day. The Unibet Champion Hurdle is due to start at 4pm, featuring top contenders such as Lossiemouth and The New Lion vying for glory in this highly anticipated race.

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Tuesday's racing will conclude with the Sun Racing Plate at 4.40pm, followed by the National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup at 5.20pm, wrapping up a full day of competitive action.

Key Details for Cheltenham Festival Attendees

The Cheltenham Festival is renowned for its thrilling atmosphere and high-stakes races, attracting fans from across the globe. With Champion Day serving as the opening act, spectators can expect a blend of novice and seasoned horses competing across various hurdles and chases.

For those following the results, the festival provides comprehensive updates on winners and racecards, ensuring fans stay informed throughout the event. The 2026 edition promises to uphold the tradition of excellence and excitement that defines the Cheltenham Festival.

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