Check out our 2026 Cheltenham Festival bankers where we have a selection for each day we can’t see losing under any circumstances.
Day One Cheltenham Festival Bankers: Lulamba – Arkle
Lulamba’s experience over fences could prove the difference as himself and Kopek Des Bordes line up in the Arkle Novices’ Chase.
Both hugely exciting novice chasers, but Lulamba has had three races over fences, whereas Kopek Des Bordes only one.
Whilst the latter’s chase debut was impressive, he took a while for his jumping to flow and in a fast-paced Arkle, the occasion may prove too much.
Lulamba has won all three starts over fences, including the Grade 1 Henry VIII Chase and the Grade 2 Game Spirit.
He can be slightly sticky over his fences and looked in a spot of bother the last day before his class pulled him through.
He will no doubt go over further in time, where Kopek will likely stay over the minimum trip.
A disrupted preparation is a key factor as to why I think Lulamba will prevail.
Price: 15/8
WATCH: Lulamba Winning The Game Spirit Chase
Day Two Cheltenham Festival Bankers: Majborough – Champion Chase
The Champion Chase landscape changed dramatically when Marine Nationale was ruled out and this looks a fantastic opportunity for Majborough to make amends for last years festival defeat.
He was breathtaking in the Grade 1 Dublin Chase when last seen, producing a performance most of his rivals could only dream of.
His jumping was a big issue last year, but the addition of cheekpieces and being allowed to stride on helped massively and may unlock the key to him.
He is a relentless grinder who enjoys slower ground and being able to dictate.
He will take a bit of beating with an error-free jumping performance.
Price: 8/11
WATCH: Majborough Wins Dublin Chase
Day Three Cheltenham Festival Bankers: Fact To File – Ryanair
Ever since his superb Irish Gold Cup victory, connections have been strongly considering sending Fact To File for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but it is looking likely he will line up in the Ryanair.
He won the race last year in breath-taking fashion and this year’s renewal is looking significantly weaker.
Should he be confirmed, he will likely be the shortest price Cheltenham favourite of the meeting and he deserves this title.
His odds will be short on the day so if that isn’t your thing you can just sit back and enjoy the performance.
Price: 4/7
WATCH: Fact To File BOLTS Up In 2025 Ryanair Chase
Day Four Cheltenham Festival Bankers: Dinoblue – Mares’ Chase
Finding a banker for Friday proved slightly tricky, but Dinoblue is quite solid at the top of the market. She was an impressive winner of last year’s contest and confirmed there are no issues about her stamina over the trip. She can throw in the odd jumping error, so hold your breath as she comes to the last, but on the whole she is quite straightforward.
Whilst a couple of her rivals have the potential to improve, she has the least to find on ratings and a re-production of last year’s effort will see her hard to beat. She could help top off a memorable week for JP McManus and Willie Mullins
Price: 6/4
Combine Four Cheltenham Festival Bankers Into 19/1 Acca!
If wanting to keep the stakes low and fun, then you could multi up the four selections for a 19/1 acca.
You can also see Andy Newton’s daily horse racing cheat sheet and tips – including his popular NAP and Lay Of The Day picks.
