The prestigious Cheltenham Festival returns for 2026, marking the pinnacle of the National Hunt jump racing season with four days of world-class competition at Prestbury Park. The event commences on Tuesday 10 March and concludes on Friday 13 March, featuring the coveted Gold Cup as its spectacular finale.
Cheltenham Festival 2026 Overview
This year's festival promises thrilling action across 28 races, with seven contests scheduled each day. The schedule includes 13 races over fences, 13 over hurdles, plus a bumper flat race and a cross-country chase. Race distances vary from just under two miles to nearly four miles, with 13 events at Grade 1 standard, five at Grade 2, six at Grade 3, and four Listed races.
Key Storylines and Competitors
Irish dominance remains a central narrative, with prolific trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend aiming to continue their success. British trainers seek to challenge this supremacy in the Prestbury Cup after last year's 20-8 defeat, adding an extra layer of competition to the proceedings.
Complete Four-Day Race Schedule
Tuesday 10 March - Champion Day
Racing begins at 1:20pm GMT with the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle and concludes at 5:20pm with the National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup. The day features the £450,000 Unibet Champion Hurdle at 4:00pm as its centerpiece.
Wednesday 11 March - Ladies Day
The second day opens with the Turners Novices' Hurdle at 1:20pm and includes the £400,000 BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase at 4:00pm. The Weatherbys Champion Bumper closes proceedings at 5:20pm.
Thursday 12 March - St Patrick's Thursday
Day three showcases the £375,000 Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle at 3:20pm and the £325,000 Ryanair Chase at 4:00pm. The Rosconn Group Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup concludes the day at 5:20pm.
Friday 13 March - Gold Cup Day
The festival culminates with the £625,000 Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase at 4:00pm. Earlier highlights include the JCB Triumph Hurdle at 1:20pm and the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at 3:20pm.
How to Watch the Cheltenham Festival
Television coverage is available through multiple channels. ITV1 broadcasts the first six races each day, while Racing TV provides comprehensive coverage including the final race of each day. Both broadcasters offer live streaming through their respective apps and websites, alongside traditional television broadcasts.
Ticket Availability and Pricing
For the first three days, various ticket options remain available. Club Enclosure tickets start from £103.50 daily, Tattersalls tickets from £73.80, and Best Mate enclosure tickets from £54. However, Gold Cup Day on Friday 13 March has completely sold out across all enclosures.
All racing enthusiasts should note that race conditions and timings remain subject to change throughout the festival. The Cheltenham Festival continues to stand as one of jump racing's most celebrated events, combining elite competition with the unique atmosphere of Prestbury Park.
