Cheltenham Festival Day Four: Comprehensive Betting Guide and Race Predictions
The Independent's journalism receives support from readers. Commission may be earned from links to external sites featured on this page. As the Cheltenham Festival reaches its thrilling conclusion on Friday, March 12, 2026, both punters and betting platforms anticipate a spectacular final day of racing action.
Horse racing correspondent Jonathan Doidge, reporting directly from the track, offers expert selections across all seven scheduled races, providing valuable insights for those looking to place informed wagers.
Detailed Race Analysis and Recommended Bets
JCB Triumph Hurdle (13:20, Cheltenham)
While favourites have claimed victory in four of the last ten editions, trainer Willie Mullins' remarkable record of five wins in the past six renewals commands attention. Jonathan Doidge admits this race presents no clear standout, with multiple contenders possessing legitimate claims. His selection leans toward Minella Study from Adam Nicol's Northumberland stable.
This unbeaten horse has triumphed in Listed company and secured victory in the track's December trial for this event, defeating Winston Junior by over six lengths. Available at 7/1 on BetMGM, he represents solid each-way value against more fancied rivals.
Cheltenham best bet: Minella Study – 1pt each-way @ 7/1 BetMGM
William Hill County Handicap Hurdle (14:00, Cheltenham)
This race has largely been dominated by trainers Willie Mullins and Dan Skelton over the past decade, with Mullins holding a slight edge. Doidge sides with Skelton's Sinnatra, highlighting an impressive Sandown maiden hurdle win in January followed by a comfortable victory under penalty at Warwick. Carrying 10st 5lb, he appears well-handicapped for his handicap debut and should handle varying ground conditions.
Cheltenham best bet: Sinnatra – 2pts each-way @ 15/2 bet365
Mrs Paddy Power Mares' Chase (14:40, Cheltenham)
Dinoblue stands as a confident selection to defend her title, with Doidge expressing surprise she isn't odds-on. Her consistent form surpasses that of rivals like Panic Attack and stablemate Spindleberry. For those seeking longer odds, Telepathique at 33/1 offers each-way potential.
Cheltenham best bet: Dinoblue – 4pts win @ 2/1 Betway
Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle (15:20, Cheltenham)
While favourite Doctor Steinberg boasts strong form, concerns about his keenness persist. Doidge believes Spinningayarn will significantly benefit from the increased distance. A heavy ground point winner also successful on yielding ground, his recent Punchestown victory by over six lengths under a penalty impressed, suggesting further improvement despite a 13lb handicap rise.
Cheltenham best bet: Spinningayarn – 1pt each-way @ 12/1 Coral
Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (16:00, Cheltenham)
The festival's blue riband event sees Doidge maintaining support for Gaelic Warrior, previously recommended ante-post. Despite recent defeats, his Festival-winning pedigree and powerful engine remain appealing, though settling issues need addressing. Respect is also due to The Jukebox Man and Haiti Couleurs, while Grey Dawning, earlier tipped each-way, requires a bounce-back performance after his Cotswold Chase run.
Cheltenham Gold Cup tips
- Gaelic Warrior – 2pts each-way @ 4/1 Betfred
- Grey Dawning – 2pts each-way @ 12/1 BetMGM
Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters' Chase (16:40, Cheltenham)
Last year's winner Wonderwall returns as favourite, but dual winners are rare in this amateur riders' event. Doidge opts for an each-way play on Stattler, the 2022 National Hunt Chase winner at this festival. Now with trainer Faye Bramley after leaving Willie Mullins, he recently won a Fakenham hunters' chase under Patrick Mullins, who retains the ride, potentially enabling a competitive showing.
Cheltenham bet: Stattler – 1pt each-way @ 12/1 Ladbrokes
Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (17:20, Cheltenham)
Gordon Elliott has excelled here, training four of the last ten winners. While no favourite has won in that period, half of victors started at single-figure prices. From Elliott's five runners, Open Secret appeals, but Doidge prefers Willie Mullins' Jump Allen. Unexposed and ground-versatile, he progressed well last season, winning a Class 2 handicap at Sandown in April. Though absent since, his trainer's record suggests fitness won't be an issue, and he may outperform his current mark.
Cheltenham bet: Jump Allen – 1pt each-way @ 8/1 BOYLE Sports
Responsible Gambling Guidance
When betting on Cheltenham races, always adhere to a predetermined budget and avoid chasing losses. Maintain control over time and expenditure, utilizing responsible gambling tools provided by sites, such as:
- Deposit limits
- Loss limits
- Self-exclusion options
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