The Cheltenham Festival, held annually in March, is the crown jewel of National Hunt racing. With its rich tradition and electrifying atmosphere, it draws the best horses, jockeys, and trainers from across Britain and Ireland, though the latter has ruled the roost on foreign soil in recent times.
Over four days of thrilling competition at Prestbury Park, fans are treated to some of the most prestigious and exciting races in the sport. From the curtain raiser on Tuesday until the final winner’s podium, punters and enthusiasts will be rife with the latest Cheltenham tips, all looking to pick their champions.
Last year’s Festival was particularly memorable, marking the 100th anniversary of the Cheltenham Gold Cup. And despite the continued dominance of Irish trainers, there were signs that the British contingent might be closing the gap, setting the stage for an even more competitive Festival this year.
This year, ongoing narratives and competitive fields make several contests particularly intriguing for 2025. Here are three races to keep a close eye on at this year’s Cheltenham Festival.
Cross Country Chase
The Cross Country Chase is back on the schedule this year after being abandoned in 2024 due to adverse weather conditions.
This race offers something completely different from the traditional steeplechase format, with its twisting course featuring banks, ditches, and unconventional obstacles. Run over three miles and six furlongs on day two of the Festival, it’s a test of stamina, versatility, and adaptability.
This year’s renewal has a particularly competitive field. Experienced Cheltenham runners like Galvin and Delta Work bring proven form to the table, while rising stars such as Macgiloney and Stumptown add intrigue to the betting markets as new favourites.
Fans will be eager to see how these contenders handle the unique demands of this racecourse spectacle. With its return to Prestbury Park, the Cross Country Chase promises to be a highlight of the week for racing purists.
Stayers’ Hurdle
The Stayers’ Hurdle is one of the most prestigious long-distance hurdle races on the calendar, run over three miles with 12 hurdles to clear.
Introduced to the Festival in 1972, it has become a cornerstone event for hurdlers who thrive on stamina rather than speed, with an illustrious roll call of past winners that includes legends like Baracouda, Inglis Drever, Big Buck’s, and Thistlecrack.
This year’s edition is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The field features standout names such as Home by the Lee, defending champion Teahupoo, and Lucky Place, all vying for glory in this Grade 1 contest.
Taking place on Thursday as the feature race of day three, all runners will carry equal weights of 11st 10lb, ensuring a level playing field that emphasises class and endurance.
Cheltenham Gold Cup
No race at Cheltenham—or indeed in National Hunt racing—commands as much prestige as the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
First run 101 years ago, this Grade 1 steeplechase over three miles and two furlongs is steeped in history and tradition.
Winning the Gold Cup is considered a career-defining achievement for any horse or jockey, with names like Arkle, Best Mate, Kauto Star, and Denman forever etched into its legacy.
Last year’s centenary edition was nothing short of iconic. Galopin Des Champs cemented his dominance with a second consecutive victory under Paul Townend, giving trainer Willie Mullins his fourth win in six years.
The 10/11 favourite stormed home ahead of Gerri Colombe and 2023 Grand National winner Corach Rambler in a performance that underscored his brilliance on jump racing’s biggest stage.
This year, all eyes will be on whether Galopin can secure an unprecedented hat-trick or if new challengers will rise to claim National Hunt racing’s ultimate prize.
