The Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle is Wincanton‘s feature contest of the season. The race precedes the Champion Hurdle by just three weeks, ensuring it can be a very useful trial.
GG tipster Joe Napier runs you through all the information for the 2026 Kingwell Hurdle below. That includes his big race tip, key trends, and the all-important raecard.
2026 Kingwell Hurdle Runners
Only four runners have been declared for the Kingwell Hurdle this season. The most likely of the quartet to emulate Golden Ace and win this race before the Champion Hurdle is Alexei. Joe Tizzard’s charge has impressed in his second hurdling season, not least when a rampant winner of the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham. That was his only run on soft ground over jumps, boding well for how he will cope with Saturday’s conditions.
Rubaud is a big danger, however. Paul Nicholls’ runner has always operated slightly below the top level. However, he is a two-time course and distance winner in the Elite Hurdle and should give his running to challenge the favourite.
The other two runners are big outsiders. Secret Squirrel may prove ahead of his mark of 133 in time, but he is returning after a year off. He should probably need this run, as should Intellotto, who has left Joseph O’Brien and is best watched.
2026 Kingwell Hurdle Racecard
13:35 Wincanton
HeavyBetMGM Kingwell Hurdle (Grade 2) (GBB Race)
- First Prize: £41608
- 1m 7f 50y
- Class 1
- 4 runners
- Win time: 3m 51s
1/2F (Won)
- Win: £1.50
16/5
6/1
50/1
+o+e Betting Returns
| Payout | |
|---|---|
| Exacta | £2.10 |
| Straight Forecast | £2.44 |
| Trifecta | £2.50 |
Kingwell Hurdle Trends
We preview some key trends which might help eliminate possible winners one-by-one in this small field.
- All of the last ten winners have been priced at 5/1 or shorter
- Five of the last nine favourites have won the race
- All of the last ten winners have been aged between 5-7
- The last four winners have carried a penalty
Kingwell Hurdle Tips
Rubaud is a very solid horse at this level and loves this track. However, his only run on heavy here saw him finish last of five and ground conditions sway the vote to Alexei. Joe Tizzard’s charge can book his Champion Hurdle ticket with another win here having been so progressive this season. Secret Squirrel is probably better than his handicap mark, but has a lot to do after a year-long layoff.
- Alexei
- Rubaud
- Secret Squirrel
FAQs
When and where will the Kingwell Hurdle be run?
The Kingwell Hurdle will take place at Wincanton racecourse on Saturday 14 February, 2026 at 1.35pm.
How can I watch the Kingwell Hurdle on Saturday?
The Kingwell Hurdle will be shown live on ITV Racing at 1.35pm.
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 Kingwell Hurdle tips published?
The tips for the Kingwell Hurdle were published at 11.15am on Friday 13 February.
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