The Grade 2 Unibet Hurdle at Cheltenham looks the hottest contest on Trials Day as it features two horses who could have an enormous say in the Champion Hurdle come March.
Ahead of the heavyweight clash, GG tipster Joe Napier runs you through everything you need to know for the 2026 Unibet Hurdle (registered as the International Hurdle), including his tip, the racecard and all of the key trends.
2026 Unibet Hurdle Runners
Only four horses go to post for the 2026 Unibet Hurdle, as we analyse the quartet of runners and their chances below.
1. Nemean Lion – Almost caused a big upset in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle in which both Constitution Hill and The New Lion fell. Was therefore well-fancied to defend his title at Windsor over 2m4f last week in class 2 company, but could only finish fourth, exposing his limitations again for this contest, unless something dramatic happens to the two principles once again. Also carries a 3lb penalty for last season’s Grade 2 National Spirit Hurdle victory at Fontwell.
2. Sir Gino – The horse to beat in the 2m division having remained unbeaten after a lay-off in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. Has also won the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth before and scored at Cheltenham without having been hard-pressed to win any of his career starts to date. Only slight question to answer is whether he could bounce just 29 days on from his year-long absence concluding, but he has looked all class for a yard who excel with horses of his calibre. Also has a 3lb penalty, but that is unlikely to inconvenience him.
3. The New Lion – Looked almost certain to be a top-notcher when gamely winning the Grade 1 Turners Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival last season. That still looks like high-class form even though it has taken more knocks of late and his first start in open company did not go to plan when falling two out in the Fighting Fifth. He was under pressure at the time, but that race did not go as planned, as he was overly fresh and forced to make his own running which surely did not suit. Should give Sir Gino his sternest test to date in receipt of 3lb, especially if settling better.
4. Brentford Hope – Was almost gifted an improbable victory in this race 12 months ago when second to the 1/12F Constitution Hill, who blundered his way through the last. Recent evidence suggests that formerly great champion was lucky to stay on his feet, but Harry Derham’s charge faces a much stronger field this year, so though he was back to form with a handicap win at Haydock last weekend, he should start struggling when the pace increases.
2026 Unibet Hurdle Racecard
15:00 Cheltenham
SoftUnibet Hurdle (Registered As The International Hurdle) (Grade 2) (GBB Race)
- First Prize: £71187.5
- 2m 0f 179y
- Class 1
- 4 runners
- Win time: 4m 24s
9/4 (Won)
- Win: £3.25
18/1
50/1
2/5F
+o+e Betting Returns
| Payout | |
|---|---|
| Exacta | £15.10 |
| Straight Forecast | £22.31 |
| Trifecta | £40.60 |
Selections
International Hurdle Trends
Our trends guru Dave Young has already looked into the trends for the 2026 International Hurdle in his dedicated article, though the key trends are summarised below for the recent winners of the race.
Unibet Hurdle Tips
The New Lion could well have won the Fighting Fifth Hurdle despite plenty going wrong for him at Newcastle, but he doubtless faces his toughest opponent in Sir Gino who likewise looked fresh in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. The difference was that Nicky Henderson’s charge belied keenness to win comfortably and can give 3lb to one of his main Champion Hurdle market rivals. Nemean Lion is preferred to Brentford Hope in a forlorn battle for third.
FAQs
When and where will the Unibet Hurdle be run?
The Unibet Hurdle will take place at Cheltenham racecourse on Saturday 24 January, 2026 at 3.00pm.
How can I watch the Unibet Hurdle on Saturday?
The Unibet Hurdle will be shown live on ITV Racing at 3.00pm.
Why is the Unibet Hurdle also called the International Hurdle?
The International Hurdle is the registered name of the race, though sponsors Unibet have claimed the title for this year’s renewal.
Who is Joe Napier?
Joe Napier is the deputy editor of GG who gives tips and opinion throughout the week. He has been writing for GG for over four years and is hugely passionate about racing.
When were the Unibet Hurdle tips published?
The tips for the Unibet Hurdle were published at 11am on Thursday 22 January.
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