Two-time winner Galopin Des Champs has been ruled out of the 2026 Cheltenham Gold Cup due to a setback, opening the market. Fact To File now leads ante-post betting at 9/2, with Jango Baie and Jukebox Man at 11/2. The blue riband race is scheduled for Friday, March 13, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Cheltenham Racecourse.
The Cheltenham Gold Cup, the highlight of Day 4 at the Cheltenham Festival, is a 3-mile, 2½-furlong steeplechase over 22 fences, first run in 1924. It offers a £625,000 prize pot, Britain's most valuable non-handicap chase. Last year's winner was Inothewayurthinkin, trained by Gavin Cromwell.
Galopin Des Champs' absence—after victories in 2023 and 2024—has reshaped the market. Fact To File tops betting at 9/2, followed by Jango Baie and Jukebox Man at 11/2 each. Jango Baie, trained by Nicky Henderson (Gold Cup winner in 2011 with Long Run and 2013 with Bobs Worth), won last year's Arkle and was fourth in the King George at Ascot. Henderson skipped a Newbury prep due to testing ground conditions, prioritizing freshness for the Gold Cup.
Jukebox Man, owned by Harry Redknapp, is unbeaten over fences after winning the King George at Ascot. Fact To File offers each-way value in the open field. A longlist of 33 entries is anticipated, with up to 24 runners possible.
Winning trends favor 7-9-year-olds, with favorites taking five of the last 10 renewals through 2025. Irish trainers lead historically (28 winners), last British success Native River (2018). Willie Mullins has four since 2019; Paul Nicholls three from 2007-2009.
Stamina and jumping accuracy are key, with the uphill finish decisive. UK viewers can watch on ITV 1, ITVx, or Racing TV.
