Cheltenham Festival 2026 Champion Day: Live Coverage and Race Updates
The prestigious Cheltenham Festival has officially commenced with Champion Day, marking the beginning of the most anticipated race week of the year. This year's event promises an extraordinary level of excitement and unpredictability across its four-day schedule, starting with seven thrilling races on the opening day.
Champion Day Highlights and Key Contenders
The headline race of the day is undoubtedly the Champion Hurdle, featuring two standout favourites: Lossiemouth, trained by Willie Mullins, and The New Lion, under the guidance of Dan Skelton. Earlier in the day, racing enthusiasts will witness a compelling showdown in the Arkle Chase between the highly-rated competitors Kopek Des Bordes and Lulamba. The action kicks off with the Supreme Novices' Hurdle, where Nicky Henderson's Old Park Star emerges as the early favourite among bookmakers.
Complete Day One Race Schedule
Here is the detailed timetable for Cheltenham Festival Champion Day:
- 1:20pm: Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle
- 2:00pm: Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices' Chase
- 2:40pm: Mccoy Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
- 3:20pm: Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase
- 4:00pm: Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
- 4:40pm: Sun Racing Plate Handicap Chase
- 5:20pm: National Hunt Novices Handicap Chase
How to Watch Cheltenham Festival 2026 Live
For comprehensive live coverage of today's races, tune into ITV1 and ITVX, with broadcasting beginning at 12:45pm. Racing TV will provide exclusive coverage of the final two races of the day, ensuring fans don't miss a moment of the action.
Live Updates and Betting Insights
Stay connected for continuous live updates throughout Champion Day, including real-time race results, expert betting tips, and the latest odds fluctuations. The Cheltenham Festival, often celebrated as the Greatest Show on Turf, delivers unparalleled excitement for horse racing aficionados and casual viewers alike.
