Cheltenham Festival 2026: The Countdown to Jump Racing’s Pinnacle
London, 25 February 2026 – With exactly two weeks to go until the roar returns to Prestbury Park, anticipation for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival has reached a fever pitch. The four-day spectacular, widely regarded as the highlight of the National Hunt calendar, is set to commence on 10 March, bringing together the finest equine talent from the United Kingdom and Ireland. As the handicap weights were officially unveiled at Kempton Park yesterday, trainers and punters alike are now finalising their strategies for the 28-race programme.
The 2026 Schedule and Key Events
The Festival will follow its traditional four-day format, featuring 28 races across several themed days. The meeting begins with Champion Day, headlined by the Champion Hurdle, and concludes with the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup on the final afternoon. This year, the sporting world is closely watching John ‘Shark’ Hanlon’s popular chaser, Hewick, as the trainer dreams of a “blockbuster” victory in the blue-riband event.
- Tuesday 10 March: Champion Day (Featuring the Champion Hurdle)
- Wednesday 11 March: Ladies Day (Featuring the Queen Mother Champion Chase)
- Thursday 12 March: St Patrick’s Thursday (Featuring the Stayers’ Hurdle and Ryanair Chase)
- Friday 13 March: Gold Cup Day (Featuring the Cheltenham Gold Cup)
The Cheltenham Gold Cup: A Century of History
The Cheltenham Gold Cup remains the most coveted prize in jump racing. Historically, the race has been a graveyard for favourites, though recent trends show a shift; market leaders won five of the ten renewals leading up to 2025. Legendary names such as Kauto Star, Denman, and Best Mate have defined the race’s legacy, while Al Boum Photo (2019, 2020) remains the most recent horse to join the elite group of multiple winners.
Key Facts for the 2026 Festival
As the “Home of National Hunt Racing” prepares to open its doors, here are the essential details for the upcoming meeting.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | 10 March 2026 – 13 March 2026 |
| Location | Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire |
| Total Races | 28 Races |
| Gold Cup Start Time | 16:00, Friday 13 March 2026 |
| First Gold Cup Winner | Red Splash (1924) |
| Recent Multiple Winner | Al Boum Photo (2019 & 2020) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 Cheltenham Festival start?
The Festival begins on Tuesday 10 March 2026, with the first race, the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, traditionally accompanied by the famous “Cheltenham Roar”.
What is the feature race of the meeting?
The feature race is the Cheltenham Gold Cup, a Grade One steeplechase run over approximately 3 miles and 2½ furlongs. In 2026, it is scheduled to take place on Friday 13 March at 4:00 pm.
How many horses have won the Gold Cup more than once?
In the history of the race, only eight horses have managed to win the Gold Cup more than once. This list includes legends like Arkle, Best Mate, and most recently, Al Boum Photo.
What were the recent developments regarding handicap races?
The handicap weights for all Festival races were officially published on 24 February 2026 at Kempton Park, providing the final piece of the puzzle for bettors and connections looking to find an edge in the competitive handicap divisions.