Top Trainers Reveal Their Cheltenham Festival 2026 Best Bets and Prospects
As the Cheltenham Festival 2026 approaches, excitement builds among racing enthusiasts, with the prestigious four-day event set to commence from Tuesday to Friday. The anticipation is palpable, and trainers are now sharing their insights on the runners they believe hold the best chances of victory. Notably, the Boodles-sponsored Gold Cup is shaping up to be one of the most open contests in recent years, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the final afternoon.
However, the build-up has not been without its setbacks. Two-time champion Galopin Des Champs will be absent, having been ruled out of another historic bid in recent days. Additionally, trainer Nicky Henderson has faced challenges, with his two-mile stars Sir Gino and Constitution Hill also sidelined. Despite these obstacles, Henderson remains optimistic about his squad's prospects.
At the Old Gold Racing preview night, hosted by Vanessa Ryle and Francesca Cumani, Henderson joined fellow trainers Paul Nicholls, Olly Murphy, and Fergal O'Brien to discuss their top contenders. Here, they name their best chances over the four days, providing a glimpse into their strategies and expectations.
Nicky Henderson's Picks
Nicky Henderson, the Seven Barrows boss, highlighted Lulamba as his shortest-priced runner across the week. He agrees with the market sentiment that Lulamba represents his best chance in the Arkle. Henderson also mentioned Khrisma, noting that if she secures a spot in the County Hurdle, she could be very well handicapped, offering a potential upset.
Paul Nicholls' Selections
Paul Nicholls expressed confidence in No Drama This End, who has won three from three this season and has been working well. Nicholls acknowledged that the Turners is a tough, competitive race but believes there is more to come from this runner. He also highlighted Quebecois as a nice handicapper expected to run very well in the Ultima. Quebecois was beaten by a short head on Trials Day at Cheltenham and prefers better ground, with training focused on this race all season.
Olly Murphy's Outlook
Olly Murphy pointed to Wade Out in the National Hunt Chase on Tuesday as a key contender. Murphy explained that Wade Out has been trained specifically for this race over the last six months, with all preparations leading here. The step up in trip and the fitting of cheekpieces are expected to benefit him. Additionally, Murphy identified Act Of Authority in the Martin Pipe on Friday as his most well-handicapped horse, noting he is only 1lb higher than when beaten by Wodhooh in the same race last year.
Fergal O'Brien's Favorites
Fergal O'Brien named Sixmilebridge as his best chance of a winner, citing strong performances since the Scilly Isles and no hold-ups in training. O'Brien also highlighted Ryan's Rocket as well-weighted in the Grand Annual, following a break after a fall at Kempton and positive work since returning from Noel Fehily's yard.
As the Festival kicks off, all eyes will be on these trainers and their selected runners, with hopes high for thrilling races and memorable victories across the four days of competition.
