Confirmations have been made for the opening day’s races at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. One horse who may not run at Cheltenham though is Jonbon, as heading straight to Aintree tempts trainer Nicky Henderson.
The racing news today centres around the ever-accelerating build-up to the big meeting in Thursday’s round-up.
Cheltenham Festival runners: Tuesday confirmations, but Jonbon unconfirmed
Nine horses were confirmed for the 2026 Champion Hurdle on day one of the Cheltenham Festival. The headlines were mostly made by two horses in the contest. The first of those is Lossiemouth, who retains her entry despite her Mares’ Hurdle option. She has run in the females only race for the last two seasons. The second is Tutti Quanti, supplemented by Paul Nicholls after impressing in his work. The market is headed by The New Lion, who was confirmed along with nearest challenger Brighterdaysahead. (Sky Sports)
In the opening contest, the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, 20 horses were confirmed. Eight of those are trained by Willie Mullins, who could attack a fast start with numerous challengers. They include Mighty Park, who has been recommended in many previews, though still has the Turners Novices’ Hurdle as an option. In opposition, the likes of Old park Star, Talk The Talk and El Cairos all reman in contention. Meanwhile, 14 are still in the Arkle, with Lulamba and Kopek Des Bordes headlining those confirmations. (Sporting Life)
One horse likely to miss the Cheltenham Festival though is Jonbon. Although the ten-year-old had no entries on the opening day to be confirmed, Nicky Henderson spoke on the Racing Post’s Cheltenham preview show about plans for his stable stalwart. The Ryanair Chase will still be considered, but it appears likelier he will head straight to the Melling Chase. he has won that Aintree contest twice in the past. (Racing Post)
Dunshea appointed by BHA
In the wake of Lord Allen’s resignation, Brant Dunshea has been appointed as Chief Executive of the BHA. Allen resigned as Chair of the organisation due to warring factions within the sport. Dunshea, meanwhile, has only been acting in his role since December 2024. He will now take up the position permanently, with David Jones stepping into the role as Chair on an interim basis. (BHA)
Trainer Evan Williams in court
Trainer Evan Williams was in court this week after being accused of beating a pensioner with a hockey stick. The Welsh handler denies the charges of causing grievous bodily harm against him. The incident took place in the Vale of Glamorgan in December 2024. Martin Dandridge, 72, was on holiday nearby Williams’ facilities and denies the defence’s claims that he broke his arm falling into a ditch while walking his dog. (BBC)