Check out the main contenders and Champion Hurdle runners ahead of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. Golden Ace won the race last year and will return to defender her crown this time around.
Champion Hurdle 2026 – The Key Contenders
The New Lion
One of the market principles for which the Champion Hurdle has fully been the plan for the entire season. Won last year’s Turners Novices’ Hurdle over an intermediate trip and the key question for him is does he have enough speed at two miles? He fell when trying to quicken in the Fighting Fifth and was somewhat unconvincing in the International Hurdle over course and distance in January. However, the race wasn’t run to suit and if he has enough speed as they quicken, he can likely use his stamina to grind his rivals into submission. This JP McManus-owned horse will be smuggled into the race and played late, so the faster they go, the better.
WATCH: The New Lion Wins Turners Novices’ Hurdle
The New Lion – Turners Novices’ Hurdle 2025#CheltenhamFestival pic.twitter.com/6fx2RgHncs
— Cheltenham Festival Fans (@cheltfestfans) September 1, 2025
Brighterdaysahead
Gordon Elliott’s star mare certainly has the best form over two miles and if this race was anywhere other than Cheltenham, she would be strong favourite. Her record around Prestbury Park is poor and is the clear negative, but Elliot believes there were excuses on both occasions, and she will be seen in a much better light this time around. She is a multiple Grade 1 winner in Ireland, looking better than ever at the Dublin Racing Festival when beating Lossiemouth. She will set a tall standard if she can produce her best, but there are risks attached.
Golden Ace
The 2025 fortunate winner, but her consistency and reliability mean she will likely be on the premises in a bid to defend her crown. This year’s renewal is weaker, but she is vulnerable to a superstar, as seen when being beaten by Sir Gino and State Man in recent outings. She will almost certainly run to a mid 150s rating and if her rivals under-perform, she will no doubt cash in. A reliable each-way option and it’ll be live on ITV Racing.
WATCH: Golden Ace Picks Up Pieces In 2025 Champion Hurdle
Alexei
An unexposed, inexperienced but talented horse, who may benefit from being in a weak division. He won the Greatwood Hurdle in impressive fashion, beating hardened handicappers in facile fashion. His Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle win showcased this horse well. He travelled powerfully, jumped slickly, but showed in-experience when he hit the front indicating there could be more to come as he grows up. A strong pace will suit and he may not have to progress further to be competitive.
Poniros
A horse who has seen plenty of market support and is likely to be Willie Mullins best chance as he bids for a sixth Champion Hurdle. He sprung a major surprise in last year’s Triumph Hurdle winning at 100/1 ran a decent race at Leopardstown on seasonal debut after a long absence. There can be optimism he takes another step forward, but he is yet to confirm his Triumph win wasn’t a one off and has a bit to find on ratings. His future may lie over further as he was a good middle distance horse on the flat.
