The 2026 Cheltenham Festival is set to commence on March 10, 2026, with the iconic roar signaling the start of four days of thrilling national hunt racing. In an exciting collaboration, the Mirror has teamed up with William Hill to enhance the experience for readers by offering a £3 shop bet every single day of the festival.
Exclusive Daily Offers and Comprehensive Coverage
From Saturday, March 7, through Friday, March 13, 2026, the Mirror will serve as the ultimate companion for racing enthusiasts. The schedule includes a fold-down Racing Pocket Guide on March 7, a 12-page preview pullout on March 8, and a massive 36-page preview on March 9. During the festival itself, from Tuesday to Friday, readers will receive a £3 William Hill shop bet daily, accompanied by a 12-page pullout each day, packed with insights and analysis.
Key Contenders and Racing Highlights
This year's festival promises intense competition, with experts anticipating a potential resurgence from British horses against the recent dominance of Irish contenders. Leading the Irish challenge are trainers Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott, who bring a formidable lineup. In the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Mullins has three top contenders: dual winner Galopin Des Champs, Fact To File, and Gaelic Warrior. However, the British side is strong, featuring Harry Redknapp's The Jukebox Man, Haiti Couleurs, and champion jockey Sean Bowen aiming for his first festival victory.
Other notable races include the Champion Hurdle, where last year's winner Golden Ace seeks to repeat her success, and the Queen Mother Champion Chase, with Majborough as the strong favorite. On the opening day, trainer Nicky Henderson could shine with favorites Old Park Star in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and Lulamba in the Arkle Trophy. Meanwhile, Dan Skelton fields his strongest team ever across the week, and jockey Harry Cobden, in his final Cheltenham as Paul Nicholls' No 1, hopes to secure a win on No Drama This End in the Turners Novices' Hurdle before starting a new role with JP McManus.
How to Access the Offers
To make the most of this year's Cheltenham Festival, readers are encouraged to pick up the Mirror starting Saturday, March 7, 2026. This will provide access to all previews, guides, and the daily £3 William Hill shop bet from Tuesday, March 10, to Friday, March 13. Additionally, signing up for the free Punter's Club newsletter will deliver expert insights directly to your inbox throughout the festival and beyond, ensuring you stay informed on all the latest developments in horse racing.
