The Cheltenham Festival 2026 is set to captivate jump racing enthusiasts with its four-day spectacle, running from Tuesday, March 10 to Friday, March 13. This prestigious event features 28 races in total, with seven thrilling contests each day, culminating in the highly anticipated Gold Cup on the final day. The festival serves as a cornerstone of the National Hunt season, drawing top trainers, jockeys, and horses from across the UK and Ireland.
Race Schedule and Key Details
Each day of the festival kicks off at 1:20 PM GMT and concludes at 5:20 PM GMT, offering a packed afternoon of equestrian action. The races include 13 run over fences, 13 over hurdles, one bumper flat race, and one cross-country chase. Distances range from just under two miles to nearly four miles, with 13 races at Grade 1 standard, five at Grade 2, six at Grade 3, and four listed races.
Day-by-Day Race Card
Wednesday, March 11 - Ladies Day: Highlights include the Turners Novices’ Hurdle at 1:20 PM, the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase at 2:00 PM, and the BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase at 4:00 PM. The day wraps up with the Weatherbys Champion Bumper at 5:20 PM.
Thursday, March 12 - St Patrick’s Thursday: Features the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at 1:20 PM, the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle at 2:40 PM, and the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle at 3:20 PM. The Ryanair Chase at 4:00 PM is another key event.
Friday, March 13 - Gold Cup Day: The climax of the festival includes the JCB Triumph Hurdle at 1:20 PM, the Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase at 2:40 PM, and the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase at 4:00 PM, with a prize fund of £625,000.
How to Watch the Festival
Television coverage is split between ITV1 and Racing TV. ITV1 broadcasts the first six races of each day, while Racing TV offers full coverage, including the final race. Both providers offer live streams via their apps and websites, ensuring fans can follow the action on various devices. Traditional TV broadcasts remain available for those preferring classic viewing methods.
Ticket Information and Availability
Tickets for the first three days are still available, with options to suit different budgets. The Club Enclosure starts at £103.50 per day, Tattersalls from £73.80, and the Best Mate enclosure from £54. However, Gold Cup Day on Friday is completely sold out, highlighting its immense popularity. All tickets can be purchased through the Jockey Club’s official platform.
Competitive Landscape and Betting Notes
This year’s festival promises heightened excitement, with Irish trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend aiming to continue their success. British trainers are eager to challenge Ireland’s dominance in the Prestbury Cup after a 20-8 defeat last year. Betting offers and free bets are available, but it is crucial to gamble responsibly. Tools like deposit limits and time-outs are provided by gambling sites, with support available from organizations such as BeGambleAware and Gamcare for those needing assistance.
All race conditions, timings, and offers are subject to change, so attendees and viewers should verify details closer to the event dates.
