Cheltenham Festival Gold Cup LIVE: Results in full as Gaelic Warrior upsets Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man

Gaelic Warrior dominated the rest of the field to win the Gold Cup on the final day of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival, with Willie Mullins and Paul Townend celebrating victory as the latter became the most successful jockey in the race’s history.

Townend and Gaelic Warrior combined to win the biggest race of the Festival at a canter, with eight lengths the distance as Jango Baie came in second and 2025 winner Inothewayurthinkin claimed third. Meanwhile, Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man started strongly but finished last after a late mistake.

Before that Friday’s action brought us a win in the Mares Chase for Dinoblue who defended her crown, while Johnny’s Jury surprised in the Albert Bartlett Novices Chase at odds of 20/1. That was bettered only by Apolon De Charnie, who crossed the winning post at 50/1 just ahead of Sir Alex Ferguson’s Maestro Conti in the in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.

Friday brings an end to another successful Festival for Mullins, who had two wins from three in the champion races entering Friday. Lossiemouth took the Champion Hurdle, Il Etait Temps claimed the Champion Chase, and now the Irishman has a famous third.

Follow all the reaction from day four of the Cheltenham Festival with our live blog below:

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Cheltenham Festival day - live updates

• 5.20pm RESULT! Air Of Entitlement wins Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle
• 4.40pm RESULT! Barton Snow wins Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase
• 4.00pm RESULT! Gaelic Warrior wins Gold Cup
• 3.20pm RESULT! Johnnys Jury wins Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle
• 2.40pm RESULT! Dinoblue retains Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase
• 2.00pm RESULT! Wilful wins William Hill County Handicap Hurdle
• 1.20pm RESULT! 50/1 Apolon De Charnie beats Sir Alex Ferguson contender
• Gaelic Warrior’s Gold Cup victory sets up on the path to glory and greatness

Gaelic Warrior’s Gold Cup victory sets up on the path to glory and greatness

16:56 , Chris Wilson

What is it that makes a champion? Is it enough to simply win or could their be more nuance to those on whom we bequeath the title?

There have been many winners of the Cheltenham Gold Cup but fewer champions. The race was first run in 1924 and, excepting a few occasions, has been run every year since.

The horses which history remembers as champions have triumphed in this race multiple times - Golden Miller, Arkle, Best Mate for example. Eight horses have won the race in consecutive years with Al Boum Photo (2019 and 2020) and Galopin Des Champs (2023 and 2024) the most recent achievers. In the 2000s Kauto Star become the only horse to regain the title, having first won it in 2007 before triumphing again in 2009.

Gaelic Warrior’s Gold Cup victory sets up on the path to glory and greatness

Cheltenham results in full: Every winner from 2026 Festival and today’s racecard and runners, including Gold Cup

20:00 , Chris Wilson

The Cheltenham Festival came to and end with the prestigious Gold Cup on Friday.

This year’s edition was an unpredictable affair with big names like Constitution Hill, Marine Nationale and Galopin Des Champs out of the running and fewer clear favourites on show.

Willie Mullins continued to thrive early on Friday, with Apolon De Charnie delivering a 50/1 victory in the Triumph Hurdle, and it only got better from there as Gaelic Warrior raced to a dominant win in the Gold Cup, with Paul Townend becoming the most successful jockey in the race’s history as the duo won by eight lengths.

Here is the full list of winners from the 2026 Festival:

Cheltenham results in full: Winners, today’s racecard and runners

Cheltenham Festival provides glimpse into horseracing’s future while returning to its past

19:49 , Chris Wilson

In its quest to draw back audiences and boost attendance numbers, there has been a real push from the Cheltenham Festival to look to the past and repeat previous successes.

Whether that is reducing the price of a pint of Guinness by 30p, bringing back the Ladies Day moniker for the first time in seven years or making fan-favourite retired jockey Rachael Blackmore the face of the day, these initiatives are having a positive impact. But they pale in comparison to the draw of watching the best horses race at this most splendid of racecourses.

As so often is the case around here, we must start with Willie Mullins, who made it two wins from two in the champion races this week when Il Etait Temps eased to victory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase on Wednesday.

Cheltenham provides glimpse into horseracing’s future while returning to its past

Cheltenham recap: Day Four

19:38 , Chris Wilson

And finally the results from day four:

Friday 13 March - Gold Cup Day

1.20: JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1)

Result: 1. Apolon De Charnie 50/1; 2. Maestro Conti 5/1; 3. Minella Study 7/1

2.00: William Hill County Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap)

Result: 1. Wilful 14/1; 2. Sticktotheplan 25/1; 3. Joyeuse 12/1; 4. Cracking Rhapsody 50/1

2.40: Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase (Grade 2)

Result: 1. Dinoblue 11/8F; 2. Only By Night 11/1; 3. Panic Attack 11/4

3.20: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)

Result: 1. Johnny’s Jury 20/1; 2. Fruit De Mer 28/1; 3. The Passing Wife 11/1

4.00: Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase (Grade 1)

Result: 1. Gaelic Warrior 11/4J; 2. Jango Baie 11/4J; 3. Inothewayurthinkin 11/1

4.40: Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

Result: 1. Barton Snow 9/2; 2. Its On The Line 7/2; 3. Music Drive 33/1

5.20: Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

Result: 1. Air of Entitlement 10/1; 2. Hot Fuss 25/1; 3. Jump Allen 8/1; 4. Kel Histoire 9/2

Heart Wood seizes Cheltenham Festival redemption but Fact To File withdrawal raises vital question

19:30 , Chris Wilson

Day three came with some questions from trainers and fans alike...

There was a collective groan from horseracing fans at the Cheltenham Festival when it became clear that JP McManus and Willie Mullins did not intend to run fan-favourite Fact To File in Thursday’s Ryanair Chase.

The pair had already raised the eyebrows of spectators last week when omitting him from Friday’s Gold Cup with the reaction to that news one of disbelief. But that wasn’t how McManus saw it.

A year ago, Fact To File’s owner had watched him travel strongly and remain in touch with the leaders in the 2025 running of the Ryanair before heading into the lead three jumps from home and going clear by the next fence. He saw the way Fact To File won by nine lengths decided that a repeat performance would be good enough. Until it wasn’t.

Heart Wood seizes Cheltenham Festival redemption but his win raises questions

‘We’ve got our Cheltenham back’: Rejoicing crowds give new-look festival seal of approval on opening day

19:19 , Chris Wilson

The winter sun shone brightly, albeit briefly, for the start of the Cheltenham Festival, the highlight of the jump racing season.

More than 57,000 racegoers – from binocular-armed racing enthusiasts to city hipsters – congregated in this corner of the Cotswolds, sending opening day attendance up 3 per cent from last year.

The excitement of the smiling crowds entering Prestbury Park, many arriving after a testing six-hour journey from Ireland, was palpable, and as the first race set off – met, of course, by the rousing Cheltenham roar – there was consensus on the terraces that the festival was back to its best.

‘We’ve got our Cheltenham back’: Crowds give new-look festival seal of approval

Cheltenham recap: Day Three

19:09 , Chris Wilson

And the results from day three:

Thursday 12 March - St Patrick’s Thursday

1.20: Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2)

1. White Noise 40/1; 2. Oldschool Outlaw 15/2; 3. Place de la Nation 28/1; 4. Charme De Faust 28-1

2.00: Jack Richards Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (Grade 2)

1. Meetmebythesea 9/1; 2. Gold Dancer 25/1; 3. Regent’s Stroll 5/1F; 4. King Alexander 20/1

2.40: Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (Grade 1)

1. Wodhooh 5/6F; 2. Jade De Grugy 2/1

3.20: Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle (Grade 1)

1. Home By The Lee 33/1; 2. Ballyburn 11/2; 3. Bob Olinger 13/2

4.00: Ryanair Chase (Grade 1)

1. Heart Wood 9/2; 2. Jonbon 2/1F; 3. Banbridge 3/1

4.40: Pertemps Network Final (A Handicap Hurdle Race) (Premier Handicap)

1. Supremely West 10/3F; 2. Lavida Adiva 22/1; 3. Ikarak 40/1

5.20: Rosconn Group Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Steeple Chase (0-145)

1. Ask Brewster 22/1; 2. Road To Home 9/1 3. Monbeg Genius 18/1 4. Kim Roque 9/2

Undefeated and unassailable, why Lossiemouth is undoubtedly a Cheltenham legend

19:00 , Chris Wilson

And here’s the report from day two as Lossiemouth became a Cheltenham legend...

The Cheltenham Festival roared back into the public consciousness with a sensational opening day that saw Lossiemouth, and jockey Paul Townend, claim the Champion Hurdle spoils in the latest act of glory for this legendary horse.

The Willie Mullins-trained mare, famed for her grey coat, headlined the first champion race of the four-day festival and was a class above the rest of the field. And that is saying something, as the race featured previous Cheltenham winners Golden Ace and Poniros, as well as Dan Skelton’s favoured The New Lion, who hoped to threaten but failed to make his move early enough.

Undefeated and unassailable, why Lossiemouth is undoubtedly a Cheltenham legend

Cheltenham recap: Day Two

18:50 , Chris Wilson

Here are the results from day two:

Wednesday 11 March - Ladies Day

1.20: Turners Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)

1. King Rasko Grey 11/1; 2. Act Of Innocence 10/1; 3. Zeus Power 50/1

2.00: Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase (Grade 1)

1. Kitzbuhel 11/1; 2. Final Demand 7/2; 3. Salver 25/1

2.40: BetMGM Cup Handicap Hurdle (A Handicap Hurdle Race) (Premier Handicap)

1. Jingko Blue 9/2F; 2. Franciscan Rock 50/1; 3. Storm Heart 5/1; 4. Ballyadam 40/1

3.20: Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Steeple Chase

1. Final Orders 7/1; 2. Favori De Champdou 2/1F; 3. Vanillier 13/2

4.00: BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase (Grade 1)

1. Il Etait Temps 5/2 ; 2. Libberty Hunter 50/1; 3. L'eau Du Sud 13/2

4.40: Debenhams Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Handicap Steeple Chase Challenge Cup (Premier Handicap)

1. Martator 66/1; 2. Jazzy Matty 8/1; 3. Break My Soul 20/1; 4. Release The Beast 10/1

5.20: Weatherbys Champion Bumper (In Memory of Sir Johnny Weatherby) (Grade 1)

1. The Mourne Rambler 15/2; 2. Mets Ta Ceinture 14/1; 3. Bass Hunter 8/1

Kargese springs Arkle surprise on opening day of Cheltenham Festival

18:42 , Chris Wilson

The report from some of the action on day one, which was not a good day for favourites...

Kargese delivered a notable upset at Cheltenham, leading from start to finish to claim victory in the Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase.

Sent off at 7-1, the mare defied expectations, with much of the pre-race attention focused on her stablemate Kopek Des Bordes, trained by Willie Mullins, and Nicky Henderson’s Lulamba.

Under a perfectly executed front-running ride from Danny Mullins, Kargese maintained her strong pace into the final turn.

Kargese springs Arkle surprise on opening day of Cheltenham Festival

Cheltenham 2026 recap

18:38 , Chris Wilson

With the Festival now coming to a close, we’ll take a look back at some of the winners and results.

Starting with day 1:

Tuesday 10 March - Champion Day results

1.20: Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)

1. Old Park Star 15/8F; 2. Sober Glory 9/2 3. Mydaddypaddy 6/1

2.00: Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Steeple Chase (Grade 1)

1. Kargese 7/1; 2. Kopek Des Bordes 11/8; 3. Lulamba 11/10F

2.40: McCoys Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle Race (Registered as the Fred Winter) (Premier Handicap)

1. Saratoga 10/1; 2. Winston Junior 5/1; 3. Klycot 40/1

3.20: Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap)

1. Johnnywho 18/1; 2. Jagwar 3/1; 3. Quebecois 10/1

4.00: Unibet Champion Hurdle (Grade 1)

1. Lossiemouth 7/5F; 2. Brighterdaysahead 7/2; 3. The New Lion 3/1

4.40: Sun Racing Plate (A Handicap Steeple Chase) (Premier Handicap)

1. Madara 3/1F; 2. Will The Wise 10/1; 3. Moon D''orange 25/1

5.20: National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup (Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase) (Class 2)

1. Holloway Queen 12/1; 2. King Of Answers 22/1; 3. One Big Bang 11/1

Townend reacts to Gold Cup win

18:32 , Chris Wilson

"Look, everything went right for me. I couldn't have written it to go any better,” said Paul Townend after winning his fifth Gold Cup.

"It was a case of not falling off him for the last three fences. I was happy enough that he had not boiled over.

"Once I got on the track, he settled a bit. When I got away from all this, he was fine at the start when we lined up and nothing was in front of me.

"I was worried he was going to charge. I was able to retrain him enough."

Next up in UK racing

18:26 , Chris Wilson

The Grand National is the next of the big UK horse racing festivals, with the eponymous race probably the biggest in the UK calendar (and perhaps even the world).

The meet takes place between 9 April and 11 April this year, with thousands set to descend on Aintree once again.

After that, racing fans can look forward to Royal Ascot and the Epsom Derby as spring turns to summer.

(Getty Images)

Harry Redknapp upbeat despite Gold Cup disappointment with The Jukebox Man

18:21 , Chris Wilson

Harry Redknapp says there were no excues after his horse The Jukebox Man fell away in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and that winning the race would have been like winning the Champions League.

Redknapp’s lifelong love of horseracing reached its zenith on a sunny afternoon at Prestbury Park as he, along with wife Sandra and son Jamie, cheered on the eight-year-old who was well placed heading to home.

The Jukebox Man then ran out of steam having kept up with the leader, Haiti Couleurs, before being passed by eventual winner Gaelic Warrior with two fences to jump.

Harry Redknapp upbeat despite Gold Cup disappointment with The Jukebox Man

Gold Cup in pictures

18:15 , Chris Wilson

(Action Images via Reuters)

(Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

(Action Images via Reuters)

Friday's results

18:10 , Chris Wilson

Here is the full list of today’s results:

Friday 13 March - Gold Cup Day

1.20: JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1)

Result: 1. Apolon De Charnie 50/1; 2. Maestro Conti 5/1; 3. Minella Study 7/1

2.00: William Hill County Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap)

Result: 1. Wilful 14/1; 2. Sticktotheplan 25/1; 3. Joyeuse 12/1; 4. Cracking Rhapsody 50/1

2.40: Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase (Grade 2)

Result: 1. Dinoblue 11/8F; 2. Only By Night 11/1; 3. Panic Attack 11/4

3.20: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)

Result: 1. Johnny’s Jury 20/1; 2. Fruit De Mer 28/1; 3. The Passing Wife 11/1

4.00: Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase (Grade 1)

Result: 1. Gaelic Warrior 11/4J; 2. Jango Baie 11/4J; 3. Inothewayurthinkin 11/1

4.40: Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

Result: 1. Barton Snow 9/2; 2. Its On The Line 7/2; 3. Music Drive 33/1

5.20: Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

Result: 1. Air of Entitlement 10/1; 2. Hot Fuss 25/1; 3. Jump Allen 8/1; 4. Kel Histoire 9/2

Envoi Allen 'a really special horse'

18:04 , Chris Wilson

Henry de Bromhead's travelling head girl Zoe Jane Smalley spoke to Racing TV about the death of Envoi Allen:

"Devastating. Lynne [Persson], who looks after him, is absolutely devastated. The lads are home, Davy Roche [Head man at De Bromhead's training yard], all the team at home – you never want to see it happen to a horse.

"He was a really special horse. He was amazing. I'm just pleased that it was quick, painless in a place that he loved."

Gold Cup horse Envoi Allen becomes third to die at Cheltenham Festival after collapse

17:58 , Chris Wilson

Enovi Allen became the third horse to die at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival after suffering a collapse following the end of the Gold Cup on Friday.

Even sadder is the fact that Envoi Allen was scheduled to retire after the race as owners Cheveley Park Stud had made the announcement. He was a 12-year-old and had plenty of supporters throughout his career. He won three times at Cheltenham Festival, and he was a 10-time grade one winner.

On Wednesday HMS Seahorse fell in the BetMGM Cup Handicap Hurdle and suffered fatal injuries.

Gold Cup horse Envoi Allen becomes third to die at Cheltenham Festival after collapse

Cheltenham results in full: Every winner from 2026 Festival and today’s racecard and runners, including Gold Cup

17:54 , Chris Wilson

The Cheltenham Festival came to and end with the prestigious Gold Cup on Friday.

This year’s edition was an unpredictable affair with big names like Constitution Hill, Marine Nationale and Galopin Des Champs out of the running and fewer clear favourites on show.

Willie Mullins continued to thrive early on Friday, with Apolon De Charnie delivering a 50/1 victory in the Triumph Hurdle, and it only got better from there as Gaelic Warrior raced to a dominant win in the Gold Cup, with Paul Townend becoming the most successful jockey in the race’s history as the duo won by eight lengths.

Cheltenham results in full: Winners, today’s racecard and runners

Redknapp: 'I've loved every minute of it'

17:48 , Chris Wilson

Here’s what Jukebox Man owner Harry Redknapp had to say after the Gold Cup to ITV:

"He travelled well. At two out I'm looking at Gaelic Warriror. The winner was fantastic and really impressive.

"I think he's got a little win problem that we need to sort out. But no excuses.

"It's been amazing. What a week it's been to be here and have a runner in the Gold Cup.

"I've loved every minute of it. It would have been the icing on the cake to win it but it wasn't to be.

"We won the second best so it's been a great season,” he added.

(Joe Giddens/PA Wire)

Air Of Entitlement wins Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:43 , Chris Wilson

Here’s the final result from the last race of the Festival:

1 - Air of Entitlement 10/1

2 - Hot Fuss 25/1

3 - Jump Allen 8/1

4 - Kel Histoire 9/2

Ireland win Prestbury Cup

17:34 , Chris Wilson

That win for Air of Entitlement means Ireland win the Prestbury Cup 15-13!

Irish trainers have now won every year since 2018!

Air Of Entitlement wins Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:32 , Chris Wilson

Air Of Entitlement takes the last race of the day!

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:31 , Chris Wilson

Looks like we could have another outsider winning this one, with Kel Histoire and East India Express still trailing!

Air Of Entitlement and Hot Fuss have made some ground late on.

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:29 , Chris Wilson

Two left and Farfromnowhere and Fiercely Proud are in the lead!

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:29 , Chris Wilson

Fiercely Proud still leading with one circuit left. Kel Histoire is in third with East India Express further back.

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:27 , Chris Wilson

Fiercely Proud leads the large field early on, with Far From Nowhere alongside him.

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:26 , Chris Wilson

Here we go then – the final race of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival!

East India Express, Kel Histoire and Jump Allen among the contenders in this one.

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:24 , Chris Wilson

A false start to begin with as they come through. They’re taking a while to line up.

5.20: Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

17:15 , Chris Wilson

The final race of the 2026 Festival is the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, which is an ungraded race open to horses aged four years or older.

It is run over a distance of 2 miles and 4½ furlongs, with nine hurdles to be cleared.

Galopin Des Champs won this race in 2021, with more recent winners including Banbridge (2022), Iroko (2023), and Wodhooh (2025).

5.20: Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle expert tips

17:11 , Mike Jones

Ruby Walsh’s tip: Kel Histoire

“Kel Histoire and Jump Allen both have solid chances, and I’ve just come down on the former. His overall form is stronger, and he’s got an eye-catching jockey booked in Michael Kenneally. He can deliver the goods in the lucky last.”

Jonathan Doidge’s tip: Jump Allen

“I like Open Secret best but preference for me is the Willie Mullins-trained Jump Allen. Still very much unexposed, he won’t mind what the ground is like and he progressed steadily last season, culminating in a Class 2 handicap win at Sandown’s end of season meeting in April (2m4f, good).”

Harry Redknapp upbeat despite Gold Cup disappointment with The Jukebox Man

17:08 , Chris Wilson

Harry Redknapp says there were no excues after his horse The Jukebox Man fell away in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and that winning the race would have been like winning the Champions League.

Redknapp’s lifelong love of horseracing reached its zenith on a sunny afternoon at Prestbury Park as he, along with wife Sandra and son Jamie, cheered on the eight-year-old who was well placed heading to home.

The Jukebox Man then ran out of steam having kept up with the leader, Haiti Couleurs, before being passed by eventual winner Gaelic Warrior with two fences to jump.

Harry Redknapp upbeat despite Gold Cup disappointment with The Jukebox Man

Mullins reacts to Gold Cup win

17:05 , Chris Wilson

"What a performance and what a performance from the owner. But, then Paul Townend, how cool was he over the last two fences” says Willie Mullins to BBC.

"I don't know how he was so cool over those last two fences. The dominance of Gaelic Warrior against a good field on paper - fantastic for them all.

"Tremendous ability. People doubted his stamina - he showed the quality that he has and the same with Paul - to have that amount of horse underneath you and do everything right - spectacular.

"I was comfortable watching Paul. This guy has to be up there with everyone, just the manner in how he did it,” he added.

(AFP via Getty Images)

Prestbury Cup standings

16:59 , Chris Wilson

The result of the Prestbury Cup will go down to the final race, with Ireland one ahead going into the last race of the day.

Irish trainers have won 14 races to UK trainers’ 13 so far, so if the winner of the final race is British trained, then it ends in a tie.

A reminder that Irish trainers have had the most winners at Cheltenham every year since 2018.

(David Davies for The Jockey Club/PA Wire)

Barton Snow wins Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:53 , Chris Wilson

Here’s the full result from the race:

1 - Barton Snow - 9/2

2 - Its On The Line - 7/2

3 - Music Drive - 33/1

4 - Golden Son - 16/1

Barton Snow wins Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:50 , Chris Wilson

What an ending to the penultimate race of the day!

It’s nearly a photo finish as Barton Snow and It’s On The Line cross, but in the end the former snatched it at the last after It’s On The Line just tired at the wrong moment.

Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:48 , Chris Wilson

It’s On The Line and Barton Snow are neck and neck over the last fence!

Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:47 , Chris Wilson

Two fences left and this will be a close one!

Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:46 , Chris Wilson

Five fences left and there’s been some movement.

Gracchus De Balme and Panda Boy have pulled into a short lead, followed by Barton Snow and Golden Son.

Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:45 , Chris Wilson

The same four lead the race with 10 fences left.

Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:43 , Chris Wilson

Gracchus De Balme, Barton Snow, Panda Boy and Golden Son make up the leading pack so far, with 14 fences to go.

All horses over safely so far.

Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:42 , Chris Wilson

Gracchus De Balme runs into an early lead, with Solitary Man in company alongside Barton Snow.

4.40: Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:41 , Chris Wilson

Here we go then, underway in the final race of the day at Prestbury Park! This one is often referred to as ‘the amateurs’ Gold Cup’.

Its On The Line goes off as favourite in this one, with Panda Boy and Wonderwall seeing their odds shorten in the lead-up.

4.40: Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase odds

16:37 , Chris Wilson

Here are the odds ahead of the penultimate race of the day, courtesy of SkyBet:

Its On The Line - 7/2

Panda Boy - 4/1

Wonderwall - 9/2

Cons Roc - 13/2

Barton Snow - 15/2

Solitary Man - 12/1

Stattler - 12/1

Golden Son - 18/1

Willitgoahead - 18/1

Chemical Energy - 22/1

Music Drive - 25/1

Shearer - 33/1

Linelee King - 33/1

Carnfunnock - 50/1

Gracchus De Balme - 50/1

Kings Jet - 66/1

Paul Marvel - 66/1

King Alex - 80/1

Take All - 80/1

Willewonga - 100/1

What A Glance - 150/1

Lift Me Up - 150/1

Pyleigh Court - 200/1

4.40: Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase expert tips

16:34 , Mike Jones

Ruby Walsh’s tip: Panda Boy

“I fancy Panda Boy, who was a solid handicap chaser for Martin Brassil. He qualified with wins in this discipline at Thurles and Naas. You need to be a strong stayer to win the Hunters’ Chase, and he ticks that box. He’s the most likely winner with John Gleeson on board.”

Jonathan Doidge’s tip: Stattler (each-way)

“Last year’s winner Wonderwall returns and is the favourite but this race isn’t littered with dual winners and I’ll take him on with a sporting each-way play on Stattler.”

4.40: Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase

16:32 , Chris Wilson

Attention quickly turns to the penultimate race of the day:

The penultimate race of the day is the Princess Royal Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase, which has been running since 1860.

The race is a open to horses aged five years or older and is run over a distance of about 3 miles 6 furlongs, with twenty-three fences.

Recent winners in this one include Holloway Queen and Haiti Couleurs.

Gold Cup results

16:28 , Chris Wilson

Here are the full results from the Gold Cup:

1 - Gaelic Warrior - 11/4

2 - Jango Baie - 11/4

3 - Inothewayurthinkin - 11/1

4 - Grrey Dawning - 16/1

5 - L’Homme Presse - 40/1

6 - Firefox - 25/1

7 - Gold Tweet - 100/1

8 - The Jukebox Man - 7/2

9 - Envoi Allen - 33/1

PU - Haiti Couleurs - 6/1

Gaelic Warrior owner reacts

16:24 , Chris Wilson

Here’s the reaction from Gaelic Warrior owner Rich Ricci on ITV. He’s become the first owner to win the Champion Hurdle and the Gold Cup in the same season

"I'm a wreck! I've been trying to win this race for 21 years. Magic. A great ride by Paul [Townend],” he says.

"We've reached the mountain but I love the game. It's the passion, the people,” he added.

(Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

GAELIC WARRIOR WINS THE GOLD CUP

16:20 , Chris Wilson

Paul Townend is now the most successful jockey in Gold Cup history now, having won the race five times.

Townend: 'I am speechless'

16:18 , Chris Wilson

"It's The Gold Cup. They just get better and better. I am speechless,” says Gold Cup-winning jockey Paul Townend.

"I was lucky enough for this lad to be coming along. Patrick [Mullins] was convinced he was the horse for the race. Hard luck on him [in that race] but he did a lot of work with this horse. It's a big team effort. I was just fortunate to be on the back of him today.

"I got the position I wanted. I didn't ever envision going so far ahead, but I wasn't going to slow him down third from the last,” he added.

(Action Images via Reuters)

GAELIC WARRIOR WINS THE GOLD CUP

16:16 , Chris Wilson

The winning margin was eight lengths in the end! What a race from Gaelic Warrior.

Jango Baie backed up his odds in second, as did Inothewayurthinkin, while that mistake from Jukebox Man leaves him in last place.

GAELIC WARRIOR WINS THE GOLD CUP

16:14 , Chris Wilson

"It was extraordinary, I can't imagine what was going through Paul's head, or mine, the way he did it, it was just incredible,” says Willie Mullins after the race.

We’ll bring more reaction as it comes.

GAELIC WARRIOR WINS THE GOLD CUP

16:12 , Chris Wilson

“We asked for stardust and we got it there in bundles,” says Grand National winning jockey on the BBC in reaction to that race.

“Paul Townend has got to take the plaudits. Total calm under pressure. Gaelic Warrior had too much light and too much space - he kept his cool and then he let him relax. Wow. Just an unbelievable performance.”

(AFP via Getty Images)

GAELIC WARRIOR WINS THE GOLD CUP

16:09 , Chris Wilson

He’s demolished the rest of the field and Gaelic Warrior and Paul Townend have won the Gold Cup!

He was closely following Grey Dawning but overtook him with three fences left, before a small mistake from the Jukebox Man allowed him to take a lead that he never looked like giving up.

Several lengths in that one in the end.

(Action Images via Reuters)

Gold Cup live

16:08 , Chris Wilson

Gaelic Warrior drives into a lead late on and flies over the last hurdle! He’s built a huge lead!

Gold Cup live

16:07 , Chris Wilson

Haiti Couleurs flat out with two fences left, but Gaelic Warrior overtakes!

Gold Cup live

16:07 , Chris Wilson

Four fences left and Gold Tweet and Inothewayurthinkin still in contention too! Gaelic Warrior is beginning to move up too.

Gold Cup live

16:06 , Chris Wilson

Haiti Couleurs leading by three lengths with 10 fences to go, and he’s beginning to turn the screw here.

Over the water jump successfully, followed by Jukebox Man and Grey Dawning, with the latter making a couple of mistakes.

Gold Cup live

16:04 , Chris Wilson

Inothewayurthinkin has fallen away from the main pack with 12 fences left, and he made a little mistake over the last fence.

Haiti Couleurs in a nice rhythm in front but we’re not even halfway through yet.

Envoi Allen and L’Homme Presse are dragging behind for now.

Gold Cup live

16:03 , Chris Wilson

Haiti Couleurs still in the lead, with Grey Dawning in second and The Jukebox Man in third.

Gaelic Warrior and Jango Baie in fourth and fifth respectively with 14 fences to go.

Gold Cup live

16:02 , Chris Wilson

Haiti Couleurs and Inothewayurthinkin moving into the lead early on, with The Jukebox Man is outside in third for now.

4.00: Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase

16:01 , Chris Wilson

The 102nd Gold Cup is underway! The sun is out again at Prestbury Park – who will win the biggest race of the day?

Who will win the Gold Cup?

15:59 , Chris Wilson

You can make a case for several of the horses in this field, so we’re in for a great Gold Cup race.

Gaelic Warrior has been heavily backed this morning, but Jango Baie has seen his odds shorten over the last few days and hours.

The Jukebox Man and Haiti Couleurs are slight outsiders, while defending champion Inothewayurthinkin could benefit from last year’s experience.

Gold Cup odds

15:57 , Chris Wilson

Here are the latest Gold Cup odds, via SkyBet:

Gaelic Warrior - 5/2

Jango Baie - 10/3

The Jukebox Man - 7/2

Haiti Couleurs - 6/1

Inothewayurthinkin - 15/2

Grey Dawning - 12/1

Firefox - 18/1

Envoi Allen - 22/1

L’Homme Presse - 28/1

Gold Tweet - 50/1

4.00: Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase expert tips

15:56 , Chris Wilson

The next race of the day needs no introduction, as the biggest race of the Festival and one of the most prestigious in all of horse racing takes place at 4pm.

The Gold Cup was first run in 1924, and is now a Grade 1 contest run over about 3 miles 2½ furlongs, with 22 fences to be jumped.

Winners in this race often go down in the sport’s history, with Galopin des Champs, Al Boum Photo, Arkle and Best Mate among notable winners.

This year, Inothewayurthinkin is bidding to become a two-time Gold Cup champion.

Cheltenham contenders: Inothewayurthinkin & The Jukebox Man

15:55 , Chris Wilson

Harry Redknapp-owned The Jukebox Man is among the favourites after winning the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day.

Inothewayurthinkin is bidding to become a back-to-back champion in the Gold Cup.

How can I watch the race on TV and is there a live stream?

15:52 , Chris Wilson

You can watch the first six races of each day, including Friday’s Gold Cup, with the ITV1 broadcast, while full coverage of the meeting, including the final race of each day is only available through a Racing TV subscription.

Both ITV and Racing TV provide live streams for the coverage through their apps and websites, while fans can of course tune on via the traditional television broadcast. Several betting sites will also be streaming the action, but in most cases you need to have a funded account.

4.00: Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase expert tips

15:48 , Mike Jones

Ruby Walsh’s tip: Gaelic Warrior

”Gaelic Warrior bids to give connections a Champion Hurdle – Gold Cup double, and I’m with him. Any rain will be an advantage to him, and the race set-up should be ideal with plenty of pace on. I can see him being dropped in towards the inner, powering through on the run to the last, and the rest, as they say, is history.”

Jonathan Doidge’s tip: Gaelic Warrior & Grey Dawning (each-way)

“I’m very pleased to see Gaelic Warrior take his chance in the Blue Riband event and have recommended an ante-post bet on him. Nothing has changed in that respect, despite his defeats since. He has Festival-winning form, I think he has a fantastic engine and I just wish he would settle.

“I also recommended an each-way play, ante-post, on Grey Dawning some time ago. He’ll need to bounce back, however, after his Cotswold Chase run.”

When is the Gold Cup? Runners, odds and start time for Cheltenham Festival main event

15:46 , Chris Wilson

A four-day spectacle of horse racing action builds to the showpiece event: The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Gup.

The race will be run on Friday 13 March where jockey Mark Walsh and Inothewayurthinkin will attempt to back up their victory from 2025 and claim the trophy for a second year running.

With prize money of £625,00, the Grade 1 chase is the most valuable jumps race in Britain and Ireland after the Grand National and represents the ultimate challenge for the very best horses. 22 fences are to be jumped during three miles and two-and-a-half furlongs concluding in a punishing finish up the Cheltenham hill.

When is the Cheltenham Gold Cup? Runners, odds and start time

Cheltenham contenders: Gaelic Warrior & Jango Baie

15:42 , Chris Wilson

Gaelic Warrior is the favourite in the main event today, but Paul Townend fell to a second-placed finish last time out against Fact To File at Leopardstown.

Jango Baie won the Arkle last year and has impressed over the longer distances, but this is his first race beyond three miles.

Cheltenham contenders: Envoi Allen & Firefox

15:39 , Chris Wilson

Three-time Cheltenham winner Envoi Allen is a 33/1 outsider for the big race of the day, with Henry De Bromhead looking to improve on a third-place finish in the Ryanair Chase in 2025.

Meanwhile, Gordon Elliott's Firefox is a 22/1 outsider, having never won at Cheltenham before.

Johnnys Jury wins Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:36 , Chris Wilson

Here are the final results from race four:

1 - Johnny's Jury 20/1

2 - Fruit De Mer 28/1

3 - The Passing Wife 11/1

4 - Mondoui'boy 14/1

Johnnys Jury wins Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:32 , Chris Wilson

Another outsider winner on day four, with Johnnys Jury having started at 20/1!

It’s a win for Jamie Snowdon and Gavin Sheehan as the rain begins to fall at Prestbury Park.

Johnnys Jury wins Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:30 , Chris Wilson

Johnnys Jury comes from inside the middle of the pack, the duo racing through and putting themselves in contention with Fruit De Mer.

However, it’s Johnnys Jury who breaks free of the pack, gaining plenty of ground down the home straight and winning by over half a length in the end.

Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:28 , Chris Wilson

It looks like that same trio will contest the final part of the race...but Doctor Steinberg falling behind with a hurdle left!

Mondouiboy is contesting, as is The Passing Wife and Johnnys Jury...

Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:26 , Chris Wilson

Doctor Steinberg in the lead as they pass the halfway point, with six hurdles to go.

Three of those are in quick succession, with the leader emerging from all three unscathed so far.

Swindon Village is leading the chasing pack but there’s very little in it to Mondouiboy in third.

Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:25 , Chris Wilson

Doctor Steinberg in front over the first hurdle, and he begins to pull in front with seven hurdles left. Plenty of time to go though!

Swindon Village still in second, with almost a length to third.

Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:23 , Chris Wilson

Swindon Village is the first to show, moving into an early lead, with Doctor Steinberg in pursuit.

3.20: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:22 , Chris Wilson

The fourth race of the day is almost at Prestbury Park, after a brief delay for a restart.

Will we see another favourite win the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle?

3.20: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

15:12 , Chris Wilson

The last race before the Gold Cup is the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle, which is a Grade 1 race open to horses aged five years or older. It is run on the New Course at Cheltenham over a distance of about 3 miles, with twelve hurdles to be jumped.

The race was inaugurated in 2005, with previous winners including Bobs Worth and Minella Indo.

Last year, it was won by Paul Townend on Jasmin De Vaux.

(Getty Images)

3.20: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle expert tips

15:07 , Mike Jones

Ruby Walsh’s tip: Espresso Milan

“Doctor Steinberg has obvious claims, but this is a race that can throw up some big-priced winners. I’m siding with Espresso Milan, who should really enjoy this step up in trip with a strong gallop. He’s the value selection.”

Jonathan Doidge’s tip: Spinningayarn (each-way)

“It’s fair to say that the favourite Doctor Steinberg goes into this with the pick of the form but I do worry that he’ll be too keen, while the form of Paul Nolan-trained Thedeviluno is not far behind him. However, one that I think will improve significantly for stepping up in trip this time is Spinningayarn.”

Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase result

15:03 , Chris Wilson

Here’s the result from the third race of the day:

1 - Dinoblue - 11/8

2 - Only by Night - 11/1

3 - Panic Attack - 11/4

4 - Spindleberry - 13/2

5 - July Flower - 6/1

6 - Piper Park - 50/1

7 - All The Glory - 33/1

8 - Telepathique - 22/1

Walsh: 'She never missed a beat'

15:00 , Chris Wilson

Jockey Mark Walsh had this to say after winning the third race of the day:

“She never missed a beat today, she’s done brilliant.

“She went early and I didn’t want to disappoint her so down to the third last I just sat on her. She’s a fair mare now.”

On whether she’s at her best, he adds: “I think so. That’s proper good ground. She loves fast ground and that was ideal for her.”

3.20: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle odds

14:55 , Chris Wilson

Doctor Steinberg - 9/4

Thedeviluno - 4/1

The Passing Wife - 8/1

Espresso Milan - 7/1

Kings Bucks - 12/1

Moneygarrow - 12/1

Mondouiboy - 11/1

Spinningayarn - 12/1

Jalon Doudairies - 16/1

Johnnys Jury - 2/1

Kazansky - 16/1

Kripticjim - 16/1

Hipop De Loire - 22/1

Doctor Du Mesnil - 25/1

Fruit De Mer - 25/1

Tackletommywoowoo - 50/1

Park Princess - 40/1

Road Exile - 25/1

Swindon Village - 80/1

Ubatuba - 50/1

Kicour La - 100/1

The Price Of Peace - 50/1

Friday's result so far

14:55 , Chris Wilson

Here are the results at the halfway point then:

13.20 - Apolon De Charnie in JCB Triumph Hurdle

14.00 - Wilful in County Handicap Hurdle

14.40 - Dinoblue in Mrs Paddy Power Mares' Chase

'I was thrust off a horse once'

14:51 , Mike Jones

Actor Hannah Waddingham is at Cheltenham today and os enjoying herself.

She said: “I was actually thrust off a horse sideways once, never to return!”

She added: “I’ve come back because we had such a good time. The Gold Cup, the strapline should be, ‘That’s not mucking about’.

“I’ve just bet on Proactif and Selma De Vary… I do have a tip [for the Gold Cup], but I’m not sharing it, I’m going to keep it to myself! I was just talking to someone here and she said, ‘Just go for whoever floats your boat’, like whatever name [you like].

“And that’s what I’m going to do now, because I’m furious that I’ve already lost a hundred of your finest British pounds!”

(Joe Giddens/PA Wire)

Dinoblue wins Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:50 , Chris Wilson

A second victory of the day for Willie Mullins, and we’ll bring you the quotes from jockey Mark Walsh in a second.

The first favourite to win on day four at Cheltenham!

Dinoblue wins Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:47 , Chris Wilson

Dinoblue retains the Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase! Another big win for the favourite, though this one by around two lengths.

Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:46 , Chris Wilson

Telepathique weakens and ends up falling over the fence!

Dinoblue leads and begins to turn the screw as they appraoch the last fence!

(Getty Images)

Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:45 , Chris Wilson

Still the same top three as we go into the final five fences, though Dinoblue edges into second going into the next one.

Three fences left and Dinoblue has moved into a lead!

Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:44 , Chris Wilson

Dinoblue holding in third for now behind July Flower and Telepathique with 10 fences to go.

Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:43 , Chris Wilson

Telepathique into an early lead with fifteen fences to go.

July Flower and Dinoblue are on the chase.

2.40: Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:41 , Chris Wilson

The third race of the day has begun! Dinoblue won this by over eight lengths in 2025 – can Mark Walsh repeat that feat this time?

2.40: Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase odds

14:36 , Mike Jones

Here are the latest odds for the third race of the day, courtesy of SkyBet:

Dinoblue - 6/5

Panic Attack - 3/1

Spindleberry - 5/1

July Flower - 6/1

Only By Night - 10/1

Telepathique - 20/1

All The Glory - 33/1

Piper Park - 40/1

2.40: Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase expert tips

14:33 , Mike Jones

Ruby Walsh’s tip: Dinoblue

“Dinoblue looks rock solid for my money. She was excellent when winning this race last year and has had an ideal preparation to defend her crown. I can’t see beyond her.”

Jonathan Doidge’s tip: Dinoblue

“I’m surprised Dinoblue is not odds-on for this at the time of writing and she’s a confident selection to win this for a second successive year. That’s no disrespect the the capable Paddy Power and Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack, or for the selection’s stablemate Spindleberry.”

2.40: Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase

14:29 , Chris Wilson

The next race of the day is one of the newest at the Festival, with the Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase having replaced the Centenary Novices' Handicap Chase in 2021.

The new race is a Grade 2 contest open to mares aged five years or older, and it’s run over 2 miles and 4½ furlongs, with 17 fences to clear.

The 2025 winner was Mullins-trained Dinoblue, riddne by jockey Mark Walsh.

(Getty Images)

O'Neills react to win

14:25 , Chris Wilson

Here’s Wilful trainer A.J O'Neill, speaking to ITV: "Unbelievable week. A week of dreams. Speechless. I've barely found my words again. The horse has done a fantastic job to go and win again."

Jonjo O'Neill added: "Cheltenham is Cheltenham isn't it? To have runners here is fantastic and I'm lucky enough to have two winners here this time."

On his own win 40 years ago, he said: "I was never worried, I was always going to win!”

Wilful wins William Hill County Handicap Hurdle

14:21 , Chris Wilson

Here are the final results from the second race of the day then:

1 - Wilful 14/1

2 - Sticktotheplan 25/1

3 - Joyeuse 12/1

4 - Cracking Rhapsody 50/1

5 - Sinnatra 9/2

O'Neill Jr: 'It's such a special place'

14:16 , Chris Wilson

Jonjo O'Neill Jr. had this to say to ITV after winning the second race of the day:

“I really fancied him. I can't fault him all year. I'd have preferred it if we didn't get the rain last night but it didn't affect him too much.

"I was lucky enough to have two last year [wins]. It's so hard to win here when you don't have many here, so you have to make them count.

"It's such a special place here,” he explained.

"I've had quite a troubled year on and off the track, I've had a lot of support off my mum and dad and brother and to repay them with a win like this means everything."

Wilful wins William Hill County Handicap Hurdle

14:10 , Chris Wilson

Wilful was second throughout the race and then powered on late one, with Ooh Betty expending too much energy in the first three-quarters of the race.

We have a 14/1 winner in the second race of the day, and we’ll hear from winning jockey Jonjo O’Neill soon.

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website