Cheltenham Festival 2026 Day 1: Complete Guide to Champions Day Racing
The Cheltenham Festival, widely regarded as the premier horse racing event in the United Kingdom for betting enthusiasts, commences with tremendous excitement on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026. Day 1, famously known as Champions Day, features seven thrilling races showcasing the highest caliber of National Hunt racehorses from across the nation. This article provides detailed predictions and expert tips for each contest, offering valuable insights for punters looking to navigate the day's action.
Champions Day Race Schedule and Overview
The racing extravaganza begins at 13:20 with the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and concludes at 17:20 with the National Hunt Chase, a Class 2 novice handicap chase. The full racecard for Cheltenham Day 1 is as follows:
- 13:20 - The Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle
- 14:00 - The Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Steeple Chase
- 14:40 - McCoys Contractors Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
- 15:20 - Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase
- 16:00 - The Unibet Champion Hurdle
- 16:40 - The Sun Racing Plate Handicap Chase
- 17:20 - National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup
Race-by-Race Predictions and Analysis
Supreme Novices' Hurdle (13:20)
The opening race of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival could see victory for OLD PARK STAR, who has delivered exceptionally impressive performances over hurdles this season. A dominant 18-length win in a Grade 2 race during his most recent outing highlights his potential. Trainer Nicky Henderson, who has secured three victories in the last ten renewals of this race, may have another superstar contender in Old Park Star, making him a strong selection.
Arkle Challenge Trophy (14:00)
This race promises to be an absolute cracker, appearing to be a straight match between Lulamba and Kopek Des Bordes. Our preference leans towards LULAMBA. The five-year-old has experienced defeat only once in his career and maintains a perfect record of three wins from three starts over fences. With his main rival having a less-than-ideal preparation, Lulamba's experience should prove decisive, potentially giving his trainer consecutive victories in this event.
Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (14:40)
In the festival's first handicap race, it might be worthwhile to take a chance on LA LUNA ARTISTA. This mare was notably impressive in the Adonis Juvenile Hurdle in her last appearance. Trained by Jane Williams, she has shown progressive form over hurdles and represents a solid each-way option in what is anticipated to be a highly competitive and wide-open contest.
Ultima Handicap Chase (15:20)
The Ultima has frequently been won by horses toward the head of the betting market, with the last three winners all succeeding at single-figure odds. This trend could continue in 2026 with JAGWAR. The seven-year-old has demonstrated a clear affinity for the Cheltenham course, and if he handles the step up in distance, he should be prominently positioned at the finish.
Champion Hurdle (16:00)
While this year's renewal may not be the strongest, the contender with standout credentials is undoubtedly THE NEW LION. His career record shows only one failure to win, which occurred when he unseated his rider while appearing likely to prevail. He emerges as the most solid option in the field, with virtually every other runner carrying significant doubts about their chances.
Plate Handicap Chase (16:40)
The Plate presents another challenging handicap to predict, but WILL THE WISE, trained by Gavin Cromwell, could be a shrewd selection. He was narrowly defeated by subsequent Grade 3 winner Ol Man Dingle on his seasonal reappearance before securing a victory in his next outing. Although he has been racing over longer distances recently, he should adapt well to this drop in trip and is expected to be competitive.
National Hunt Chase (17:20)
BACKMERSACKME should be difficult to beat in this contest. Trained by Emmet Mullins, this charge brings excellent form into the race and faces limited significant threats. Mullins previously won this event with Corbetts Cross two years ago and understands the type of horse required for success—Backmeorsackme aims to fulfill that criteria.
Essential Responsible Gambling Advice
Day 1 of the Cheltenham Festival presents an exciting betting opportunity that appeals to punters of all experience levels. However, the exhilarating action can sometimes lead to impulsive decisions. Therefore, it is crucial to engage in responsible gambling practices. This includes setting strict budgets and utilizing available gambling tools when necessary. These tools encompass options such as time-outs, self-exclusion, and account closure.
Individuals seeking support can contact the following organizations:
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133
- GamCare
- GambleAware
We are committed to promoting responsible gambling. Always gamble responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, reach out to the National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133 or visit gambleaware.org for help, support, and advice.
