The Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle is the big race on the King George undercard at Kempton on Boxing Day, having been won for the last two seasons by Constitution Hill. However, it is another Nicky Henderson superstar looks set for the race this year in Sir Gino.
We run you through everything you need to know about this year’s Christmas Hurdle below, including a guide to the field, a run through the key trends, and our big race verdict.
Christmas Hurdle Runners
After making such a huge impression when winning the Grade 1 Wayward lad Novices’ Chase last season, Sir Gino is set to return after a year-long hiatus caused by a dangerous infection to his hind leg. He is unbeaten since joining Henderson, easily winning the Fighting Fifth Hurdle on his return last season and could be a headline act to follow throughout this season. This year’s Fighting Fifth winner is also set to be involved though, with Golden Ace having recently followed up her Champion Hurdle victory by winning at Newcastle and she is the nearest danger according to the market. However, Celtic Dino is another improving type for Sam Thomas, while Rubaud almost always gives his running for Paul Nicholls, which could be important for each-way purposes. Both Give It To Me Oj and Tripoli Flyer are up against it on ratings.
13:55 Kempton
GoodLadbrokes Christmas Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race)
- First Prize: £74035
- 2m 0f 0y
- Class 1
- 6 runners
- Win time: 3m 41s
4/7F (Won)
- Win: £1.58
- Place: £1.20
5/1
- Place: £1.90
16/1
4/1
28/1
50/1
+o+e Betting Returns
| Payout | |
|---|---|
| Exacta | £3.70 |
| Straight Forecast | £4.03 |
| Trifecta | £15.70 |
Selections
Christmas Hurdle Trends
Our expert Dave Young has run through all of the key trends for the 2025 Christmas Hurdle, with the key factors needed to fit the bill here to help you towards the winner.
Christmas Hurdle Tips
He has not been seen for almost exactly a year, but Sir Gino has shrugged off long absences easily in the past and looked a potential sensation in both the Fighting Fifth Hurdle and Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase last season. He should win again, though both Golden Ace and Celtic Dino set decent benchmarks if he is anywhere below his best, with slight preference for the latter for the forecast after a game run in the Ascot Hurdle behind a near-unbeaten winner.
- Sir Gino
- Celtic Dino
- Golden Ace
FAQs
When and where will the Christmas Hurdle be run?
The Christmas Hurdle will be run on Boxing Day, Friday 26 December at Kempton, with the race due off at 1.55pm.
How can I watch the Christmas Hurdle on Boxing Day?
The Christmas Hurdle is one of six races being broadcast live on ITV Racing on Boxing Day, though you will also be able to watch the contest on Racing TV too.
When were the Christmas Hurdle tips published?
The Christmas Hurdle tips were published at 10.00am on Tuesday 23 December 2025.
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.
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