A competitive field of 11 contest the Cheltenham Gold Cup on Friday. The coveted contest was marred after the late omission of two-time winner Galopin Des Champs. A setback unfortunately ruled him out of a bid for his historic third Gold Cup. Nevertheless, the confirmed field is littered with quality for a thrilling renewal.
King George form on show
The first three home in the King George were all declared as the trio bid for Gold Cup glory. The Jukebox Man got up late in the day there and Ben Pauling is adamant this extra distance will suit. Gaelic Warrior might’ve got closer had Townend not lost his stick, though he has long promised to win a race of this nature providing he can settle.
Arkle winner Jango Baie perhaps had the most unfavourable trip there. A repeat performance gives him a strong chance.
Inothewayurthinkin returning to form
Last year’s winner Inothewayurthinkin lowered the colours of Galopin Des Champs in 2025, improving on a moderate campaign. The 2024 Kim Muir winner has looked lacklustre this term, but is reportedly showing signs of his old self in the recent build-up.
Grey Dawning to give Skelton’s a memorable first Gold Cup
The gorgeous Grey Dawning has been campaigned with two targets in mind this season. He was an excellent winner of his first, the Betfair Chase, then caught the eye in the Cotswold Chase en-route here.
Envoi Allen to bow out in his eighth successive Cheltenham Festival
Envoi Allen has imprinted his hooves in thoroughbred folklore and it would be a huge success should he bow out as a Gold Cup winner. Though a 12-year-old, he proved the fire still burns when winning the Down Royal Champion Chase in November. Connections memorably won this race with A Plus Tard in 2022, and Henry De Bromhead knows what it takes.
Gallant Haiti Couleurs to stay all day
Welsh Grand National winner Haiti Couleurs bids to emulate Synchronised and Native River in winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Reminiscent of the gallant chasers of yesteryear, he arrives on the back of a dominant but composed Denman Chase success.
The second that day, L’Homme Presse, bids to better his fourth place in the 2024 renewal. Meanwhile, Firefox, Gold Tweet and Spillane’s Tower fill the remainder of an 11-strong field.