Cheltenham Festival 2026: Irish Trainers’ Predictions & Best Bets

The Cheltenham Festival, a cornerstone of the National Hunt racing calendar, is fast approaching, set to run from March 10-13, 2026. While Willie Mullins is widely expected to dominate the trainer standings for the seventh consecutive year, a growing sense of anticipation suggests a closer contest with British trainers than in recent memory. Industry figures are weighing in with predictions, offering a glimpse into potential winners and key storylines for the four-day event.

According to insights gathered from a range of experts, including trainers, bookmakers, and former sporting stars, the Irish contingent remains formidable, but the British are mounting a stronger challenge. Jimmy Barry Murphy, a figure in Cork GAA, anticipates 18 Irish-trained winners while Paddy Power, the bookmaker, predicts 15. However, Nicky English, of Tipperary GAA, suggests the gap may be closing, even forecasting a potential 14-14 draw between Ireland and the UK.

The shadow of Willie Mullins looms large. He’s the overwhelming favorite to be crowned Top Trainer, with odds currently around 1/6. Mullins’ success is attributed to his depth of talent, possessing both established Grade 1 performers and strategically placed handicap horses. Despite his dominance, some believe his performance might be slightly tempered this year. Paddy Power suggests Mullins may secure seven winners, down from the ten he achieved last year, while Barry Murphy predicts six.

Beyond Mullins, several British trainers are pinpointing their key contenders. Olly Murphy is optimistic about Act of Authority in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, noting the horse’s familiarity with the course and favorable ground conditions. Wade Out, trained by Olly Murphy, is also being targeted for the National Hunt Challenge Cup Novices’ Handicap Chase, having been specifically trained for this race since November. These selections reflect a broader strategy among British trainers to challenge the Irish dominance in key handicap races.

The experts also offered specific betting tips. Ivan Yates, a pundit and broadcaster, is backing a double featuring Bambino Fever in the novice hurdle and Dinoblue to repeat her success in the Mares Chase. Darragh O’Se, a Kerry GAA figure, suggests an each-way double on Koktail Divin in the Brown Advisory and North Shore in the Triumph Hurdle. These selections highlight potential value bets for punters looking beyond the heavily favored contenders.

However, not all predictions are focused on potential winners. Several experts identified horses to avoid. Paddy Power advises caution with Lulamba in the Arkle, while Nicky English suggests Old Park Star will struggle in the first race on Tuesday, having benefited from an uncontested lead at Haydock. These “lay” bets offer a counterpoint to the optimistic predictions, providing a more nuanced view of the racing landscape.

The Cheltenham Festival is not just about the racing. it’s also about the stories and the hopes attached to each horse and jockey. Several experts expressed a desire to see specific outcomes beyond simply predicting winners. Nicky English hopes to see Thedeviluno fight for the finish in the Albert Bartlett, representing a personal connection to the “Youoktodrive Syndicate.” Paddy Power expressed a wish for Galopin Des Champs to reclaim the Cheltenham Gold Cup, though acknowledges Gaelic Warrior may be in contention. Ivan Yates simply hopes for a safe festival, stating, “No fatalities.”

The anticipation surrounding the 2026 Cheltenham Festival is palpable. While Willie Mullins remains the clear favorite, the growing confidence among British trainers and the diverse range of predictions from industry experts suggest a potentially thrilling and unpredictable four days of racing. The festival, scheduled for March 10-13, promises not only sporting spectacle but also compelling narratives and a renewed sense of competition between Ireland and the UK.

The focus on specific horses like Kopek Des Bordes (favored by Jimmy Barry Murphy in the Arkle) and Favori De Champdou (Paddy Power’s pick for the Cross Country Chase) provides concrete angles for bettors and racing fans alike. The differing opinions on the overall Irish versus British performance – ranging from a comfortable Irish victory to a potential draw – underscore the uncertainty and excitement surrounding the event.

the Cheltenham Festival remains a celebration of National Hunt racing, and the insights from these experts offer a valuable preview of the battles to come. The event is poised to deliver a compelling mix of established stars, emerging talents, and captivating storylines, solidifying its position as a highlight of the sporting calendar.