The final entries for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday. We will also find out the weights for the handicap contests at the big meeting. Similarly, debate continues apace about Constitution Hill‘s participation in the Champion Hurdle.
Find out more about the racing news today on Tuesday 24 February.
Cheltenham discussion to ramp up on Tuesday
Entries for the final two races at the Cheltenham Festival will be announced on Tuesday. Only the Champion Bumper and the Hunter Chase are yet to receive their entries two weeks out. As well as receiving those, we will also find out the weights for the Cheltenham handicaps. This will be particularly important when it comes to the Irish participants in such races. All told, it is a big marking post in the countdown to the Festival. (Racing Post)
More racing figures have weighed in on Constitution Hill’s potential participation at the Cheltenham Festival. The 2023 Champion Hurdler is now odds-on to compete at the meeting according to the bookmakers. Nicky Henderson and owner Michael Buckley have already announced discussions will take place surrounding the Champion Hurdle this week. Matt Chapman has also broadcast his opinion, saying there should be no doubt that he runs at Cheltenham. (The Sun)
Patrick Mullins excited about Gaelic Warrior
Patrick Mullins is keen on Gaelic Warrior’s chance in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The eight-year-old won some big prizes in 2025, including the Grade 1 Bowl at Aintree and the John Durkan Chase at Punchestown. Mullins, who is an amateur jockey, said “I’d love to ride Gaelic Warrior, I think he’d win the Gold Cup.” There remains a debate as to which race he will run in at the Cheltenham Festival. It is likely he and stablemate Fact To File will be split between the Gold Cup and Ryanair Chase. (Horse & Hound)
Employee of the Year revealed in Thorough Industry Awards
The 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards took place this weekend. In its 22nd year, the awards celebrate the unsung heroes behind the scenes of the sport. Kieran Kourdache won the top prize of Employee of the Year at this year’s awards. The 26-year-old is the travelling head lad for Karl Burke’s stable on the flat. He was among six winners of awards at the event. (BHA)
The Queen spotted at Plumpton
Lastly, Queen Camilla enjoyed a day at the races at Plumpton on Monday. The racecourse is situated close to her childhood home. Her day out comes during a period of turmoil for the royal family in the wake of further allegations regarding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. (Daily Mail)