Explore the exceptional Irish team poised to excel at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival.
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Excitement builds for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival
The anticipation surrounding the 2026 Cheltenham Festival is palpable, with a strong representation from Ireland expected to make a significant impact. This prestigious event, known for its thrilling races, will feature top trainers such as Willie Mullins, Gordon Elliott, and Henry De Bromhead, all vying for victory across various competitions throughout the week.
Since its establishment in 2014, the Prestbury Cup has intensified the rivalry between Ireland and Great Britain. The Irish team has claimed victory in nine out of thirteen editions of the contest. Their recent success in 2026 was particularly noteworthy, as they outperformed their British rivals with an impressive score of 20-8, achieving their largest victory margin to date.
Champion hurdle: Ireland’s aspirations
As the festival commences, all attention is directed towards Lossiemouth, who embodies Ireland’s ambitions in the esteemed Champion Hurdle. Currently favored at 2/1 in the betting odds, this remarkable mare boasts an impressive record of 13 wins in 16 hurdle races, positioning her as a leading contender for the 2026 title.
This season, Lossiemouth has demonstrated her exceptional talent by securing victories in two Grade One races: the Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown and the December Hurdle at Leopardstown. Notably, she has achieved success in all her previous Cheltenham Festival appearances, winning the Triumph Hurdle in 2026 and dominating the Mares’ Hurdle in both 2026 and 2026. A victory this year would represent her most significant accomplishment at the festival to date.
Gold Cup rivalries renewed
The anticipation builds as the top two finishers from the 2026 Cheltenham Gold Cup prepare to clash once more in this year’s feature race. Inothewayurthinkin, trained by Gavin Cromwell, will compete against Galopin Des Champs, under the guidance of Willie Mullins. This matchup is set to be a highlight of the festival.
Inothewayurthinkin made an impressive debut in last year’s Gold Cup, thriving on the challenging Cheltenham track. Should he defend his title successfully, he would join an elite group of only four horses to have won back-to-back Gold Cups in the 21st century. Conversely, Galopin Des Champs is a seasoned competitor, having claimed victory in the Gold Cup in both 2026 and 2026. At ten years old, he aims to become the oldest winner since Cool Dawn in 1998.
Key contenders in other races
The Stayers’ Hurdle is another event where Irish competitors are anticipated to excel. Teahupoo, a notable performer in the three-mile hurdles category, is the favored entrant in this race. Trained by Gordon Elliott, he demonstrated strong performance in last year’s Championship race and is well-positioned to secure victory this time around.
On the second day of the festival, attention will turn to the Queen Mother Championship Chase, where Marine Nationale leads the Irish contingent. He will compete against fellow Irish horse Majborough in a thrilling two-mile chase contest. Both horses are expected to deliver electrifying performances, further solidifying Ireland’s prominent presence at Cheltenham.
Festival schedule and insights
The 2026 Cheltenham Festival is scheduled to take place from March 9 to March 12, featuring an impressive lineup of 28 races over these four days. Each day will include a Championship race, enhancing the festival’s appeal. Fans can anticipate a mix of exciting competition and exceptional displays of horsemanship.
As the festival draws near, anticipation grows among fans and punters eager to see which horses will claim victory. With a strong contingent of Irish horses and trainers, the 2026 Cheltenham Festival is poised to be a landmark event. Many observers will focus on whether Ireland can sustain its winning momentum and further establish its reputation at this prestigious gathering.
