Sir Alex Ferguson, the iconic former Manchester United manager, is being backed for further glory at the Cheltenham Festival in 2026, with top trainer Dan Skelton providing his expert tips for success. Ferguson has already enjoyed winners at the prestigious event in both 2024 and 2025, and now aims to extend his impressive run in the world of jump racing.
Ferguson's Cheltenham Ambitions and Skelton's Insights
Dan Skelton, an 11-time Cheltenham Festival-winning trainer who currently leads the trainers' championship with 158 wins and over £3.4 million in earnings, has expressed strong optimism about Ferguson's chances. In an interview with the Daily Mail ahead of the festival, Skelton highlighted Ferguson's horses as key contenders, noting his enthusiasm for their potential.
Maestro Conti: A Standout Contender
One of Ferguson's prime hopes is Maestro Conti, a four-year-old set to race in the JCB Triumph Hurdle at 1.20pm on Friday. Skelton tipped this horse as one of his best chances of the week, despite it being the fourth favourite behind Practif, Selma De Vary, and Minella Study in a 25-runner field. Skelton remarked, "He's one of our best chances of the week. I've always tried to have a plan and stick to it. I was delighted with him at Cheltenham on Trials Day in January."
Past Successes and High Stakes
Ferguson's recent Cheltenham triumphs include a notable win in 2025 with Caldwell Potter, who won the Jack Richards Novices Chase at 25-1 odds. This horse was part of a syndicate purchase with the late John Hales for £630,000 in 2024, making it the most expensive jump horse at a public auction. In 2024, Ferguson's syndicate also broke their duck at Cheltenham with victories from Monmiral and Protektorat in their respective races.
Skelton's Broader Festival Predictions
Beyond Ferguson's entries, Skelton shared his top tips for the Cheltenham Festival, which kicked off on Tuesday. He tipped The New Lion for the Champion Hurdle at 4pm, praising its physical condition and speed. For the opening day, MyDaddyPaddy was highlighted as a contender in the first race against standouts like Old Park Star, Talk the Talk, and Mighty Park.
Other Key Races and Contenders
Skelton also discussed Kabral Du Mathan, expressing caution but happiness for its step up to three miles in the Stayers Hurdle on Thursday. On the final day, Panic Attack was favoured in the third race, with Skelton noting, "She is in unbelievable form; she's won three races this year and I don't know why she's become so good. Her form has been phenomenal, her work is great: whatever beats her will win."
Context and Competition in Jump Racing
The jump-racing field has seen dominance from trainers like Paul Nicholls since 2005-06 and Nicky Henderson with four wins between 2012 and 2020, before Willie Mullins took over in recent years. This year presents a significant opportunity for Skelton to challenge Mullins' stronghold and potentially claim the Champion Trainer title, adding extra intrigue to Ferguson's involvement.
As the festival unfolds, all eyes will be on Sir Alex Ferguson's horses, with Dan Skelton's backing adding to the anticipation of whether the football legend can secure more Cheltenham glory in 2026.
