Jockey Ben Jones has expressed confidence in The Jukebox Man ahead of Friday's Cheltenham Gold Cup, dismissing concerns about the Harry Redknapp-owned gelding's stamina. The seven-year-old, trained by Ben Pauling, is a leading contender after winning the King George VI Chase at Kempton in December 2024.
Jones, who has a long association with the horse, described preparations as 'A1' and noted that the horse's performance at Christmas was followed by an even better preparation. 'We couldn't be happier,' he said, while acknowledging the strength of the field.
The Jukebox Man previously ran at the Cheltenham Festival in the 2024 Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle, where he led but was overtaken on the run-in by Stellar Story. Jones dismissed any notion that the horse failed to stay the distance, arguing that he 'got lonely out in front' and that his post-race effort showed he had more to give.
Jones identified Galopin Des Champs as the main threat due to his proven track record, but insisted he would not swap his mount for any other contender. The Gold Cup, featuring 22 fences, will determine the champion staying chaser.
