Cheltenham Festival Betting Tips & Predictions 2025
The Cheltenham Festival is the pinnacle of jump racing, a four-day celebration where legends are made, and history is written. With its iconic Gold Cup and 28 fiercely contested races, Cheltenham's prestige is unmatched.
Whether you're an experienced bettor or a newcomer, expert tips, predictions, and strategies are essential to make the most of this exhilarating event. Here, you'll find insights to navigate the 2025 festival and enhance your betting experience.
Introduction to the Cheltenham Festival 2025
An Overview of the Festival: What makes it a premier horse racing event?
The Cheltenham Festival is the crown jewel of National Hunt racing, drawing top-tier horses, jockeys, and trainers for four days of top-quality competition. Known as the highlight of the jump-racing season, this event is a must for bettors.
Dating back to 1860, Cheltenham's history and significance are unmatched, featuring iconic races like the Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, and Queen Mother Champion Chase.
Beyond the fierce competition, the festival is renowned for its electric atmosphere, epitomized by the "Cheltenham roar" as fans kick off the first race.
With over 250,000 attendees and millions wagered, Cheltenham is one of the biggest events of the year for bettors.
Key Changes for 2025 (New Rules, Race Additions, or Updates)
Here's a quick look at key changes and updates set for the 2025 Cheltenham Festival:
Race Programme Adjustments
Turners Novices' Chase: Replaced with a Grade 2 Limited Novice Handicap Chase over 2m 4f.
National Hunt Chase: Now a Class 2 Novice Handicap Chase (0-145) with professional jockeys allowed, removing the amateur rider restriction.
Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase: Converted to a Limited Handicap from a conditions race.
Ryanair Mares' Novices Hurdle: Moves to a level weights format with no penalty structure.
Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle: Series qualifiers' winners within weights at declaration stage now guaranteed a run.
Eligibility Requirements
Horses must have run at least four times in chases and five times in hurdles to qualify for non-novice handicaps.
Prize Money Increase
An additional £115,000 brings the total prize fund to £4,930,000.
Ticket Price Freeze
All 2025 ticket prices will remain at 2024 levels, offering fans great value.
What Makes Cheltenham Festival Unique for Bettors?
From a betting perspective, the Cheltenham Festival is a thrilling and unpredictable festival that offers fantastic entertainment.
The Cheltenham Hill
Known as one of the racecourse's most defining features, the uphill final stretch at Cheltenham can shift the outcome of a race in seconds. Even horses that appear to be winning comfortably can tire on the incline, allowing those behind to gain ground in the final moments. This feature adds an extra level of unpredictability, making each race a test of endurance that keeps bettors engaged until the finish.
Larger, Competitive Fields
Cheltenham draws the best horses, trainers, and jockeys from across the UK, Ireland, and beyond. The result is larger and fiercely competitive fields of the top horses across the globe. For bettors, this means greater odds variation and more opportunities to find value, although it also raises the stakes with more contenders vying for the win.
Unpredictable Upsets
Cheltenham's reputation for surprises is well-earned. Iconic upsets, like Norton's Coin winning the 1990 Gold Cup at 100/1 and Sire Du Berlais claiming the 2023 Stayers' Hurdle at 33/1, add a sense of excitement and opportunity for punters. These long-shot wins remind bettors that anything can happen.
Prime Betting Opportunities
The festival is a highlight for betting, with bookmakers offering special promotions, enhanced odds, and unique markets.
Key Dates and Featured Races: Overview of the Festival Schedule
The Cheltenham Festival 2025 is set to run from Tuesday, March 11 to Friday, March 14. Each day features an exciting lineup of high-stakes races, culminating in the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup on the final day.
Here's a breakdown of the feature races across each day of the festival:
Day 1: Champion Day (Tuesday, March 11)
4:00 PM: Unibet Champion Hurdle (Grade 1)
Day 2: Style Wednesday (Wednesday, March 12)
4:00 PM: BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Steeple Chase (Grade 1)
Day 3: St Patrick's Thursday (Thursday, March 13)
3:20 PM: The Ryanair Steeple Chase (Grade 1)
4:00 PM: Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle (Grade 1)
Day 4: Gold Cup Day (Friday, March 14)
4:00 PM: Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase (Grade 1) (Main event of the festival)
Cheltenham Festival Ante-Post Betting Tips
Ante-post betting involves placing bets on horse races well in advance of the event, often months before the final field is confirmed. This type of betting is particularly popular for the Cheltenham Festival due to its high-profile nature and the long buildup to the event
Advantages of Ante-Post Betting
Better Odds: Since the final lineup isn't set, bookmakers often provide more attractive odds than those closer to race day, presenting opportunities for bettors who identify early value.
Early Value: Placing bets based on early predictions can secure a higher price if a horse's odds shorten as the event approaches.
Risks of Ante-Post Betting
Non-Runner Risk: If the horse you back doesn't run, you typically lose your stake unless you placed a "non-runner no bet" wager.
Injury and Form: Horses' form and fitness may fluctuate, impacting their chances by race day.
Changing Conditions: Weather and track conditions can shift, potentially altering a horse's suitability for the race.
Tips for Cheltenham Ante-Post Betting in 2025
This section is design to support bettors on how to place ente-post ahead of the festival. Pull out some key anti-post factors and guide readers to identify value bets early on and inform when its best to hold off.
Horses to Back Early for Better Value
This type of betting is particularly advantageous for securing better odds on horses expected to perform well that will likely go off much shorter prices on the day of the race.
This is because when you place an ante-post bet, you are betting on a horse before the final lineup is confirmed and before the horse's recent form is fully known. This means bookmakers offer more generous odds due to the higher uncertainty at this stage.
As the event approaches and more information becomes available (such as recent performances, training updates, and expert opinions), the odds for strong contenders typically shorten.
Doing your research or listening to expert tipsters' advice on Ante-Post betting can ensure that you return the best value for the 2025 Cheltenham Festival.
Below are two of oddschecker expert Andy Holding's Ante-Post fancies for the upcoming festival. Click here to read his full article listing his 10 horses to follow for the National Hunt season.
HELLO NEIGHBOUR – Gavin Cromwell
"Physically, he has the scope and characteristics to mould himself into a smart juvenile hurdler and housed in one of the upwardly mobile training centres in Ireland, he has the platform to become one of the leading players for the Triumph Hurdle at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival".
MAUGHREEN – Willie Mullins
"One of the market leaders for last season's Champion Bumper following that emphatic success, she met a setback which unfortunately kept her off the track for the rest of the season but providing all is well with Willie Mullins' mare, she should take high rank in novice races against her own sex – with the target being the Mares' Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham."
Waiting for NRNB (Non-Runner No Bet)
While ante-post betting can offer attractive odds, it also comes with the risk that your chosen horse might not run in the race. This is where the Non-Runner No Bet (NRNB) option becomes valuable.
Benefits of Non-Runner No Bet
Risk Mitigation: NRNB ensures that if your horse does not run, your stake is refunded. This significantly reduces the risk of losing money on a non-starter1.
Flexibility: It allows you to place bets with the confidence that you won't lose your stake if the horse is withdrawn or redirected to another race.
Expert Betting Tips for Cheltenham Festival 2025
Here you should include an overview of tips from the expert tipsters for each day of the festival. This should be divided into two sections. 1) daily insights 2) race specific tips.
Free Daily Tips for Cheltenham Races
As the Cheltenham Festival approaches, oddschecker becomes an invaluable resource for bettors, providing daily tips from some of the most respected tipsters in the industry.
Steve Ryder and Andy Holding have already begun to provide insight into the festival on our website and will continue to do so as race day approaches and more information and relevant factors to consider reveal themselves.
Experts such as Andy Holding, Steve Ryder, Joe Norris (GYTO), Racing Lee, Architect Tips and Road to Cheltenham offer their daily selections and insights, helping bettors navigate the complexities of the festival using their wealth of knowledge from years of experience tipping and betting at Cheltenham Festival.
Race Day Tips from Experts
Day 1: Supreme Novices' Hurdle Insights
Andy Holding has provided an early selection in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle:
"One of the market leaders for last season's Champion Bumper following that emphatic success, she met a setback which unfortunately kept her off the track for the rest of the season but providing all is well with Willie Mullins' mare, she should take high rank in novice races against her own sex – with the target being the Mares' Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham."
Click here to read his full article.
Day 2: Champion Chase Strategies
Oddschecker have taken a look at the early betting to provide the insight below:
33% of total bets in the Ante-Post market have backed Gaelic Warrior to win the 2025 Champion Chase
Though a horse that has proved somewhat erratic and unpredictable in the past, the six-year-old showed the class he has long promised when winning the Arkle at Cheltenham in impressive fashion.
After the race Mullins was quick to put his name in the hat for this race, stating that "He looks like a Champion Chaser, he could be a Ryanair horse, and he won over three miles as a novice hurdler, like Galopin Des Champs did. He's very adaptable."
Rich Ricci, his owner said "He's a bit of a flawed genius. He's a bit mad, he likes to get on with it during the race, but he was out of control after the race. He's maybe the most naturally talented horse we've had but he's quirky."
Day 3: Stayers' Hurdle Best Bets
Oddschecker have taken a look at the early betting for the Stayers' Hurdle to provide the insight below:
The 2024 Stayers' Hurdle winner, Teahupoo, comes in as our fourth most popular ante-post bet over the summer, looking to regain the long-distance hurdle crown in March.
Gordon Elliott's seven-year-old went unbeaten last season collecting three Grade 1 victories and Oddschecker punters are keen on him being successful at the 2025 Festival.
67% of all bets placed on the Stayers' Hurdle market over the summer have backed Teahupoo for victory.
Click here to read the full article.
Day 4: Cheltenham Gold Cup Betting Strategies
Steve Ryder has provided an early look at the Cheltenham Gold Cup:
"Henry de Bromhead is no stranger to victories at Cheltenham and he has the lightly raced nine-year-old LETS GO CHAMP entered in this race and a repeat of his Punchestown Festival success would see him go close."
Click here to read his full article.
Advanced Betting Strategies for Cheltenham Festival 2025
If you are looking to take your betting to the next level at Cheltenham and go for bigger payouts with combination/multiples bets, then here is a quick overview of some of the best ways to do that.
Using Doubles, Trebles, and Accumulators at Cheltenham
Doubles: Two Selections
A Double involves betting on two selections in different races. Both must win for the bet to pay out, and the odds are multiplied together for a higher payout.
Best Practice for Doubles:
Focus on Strong Selections: Ideally, bettors should focus on races where they have identified strong favorites or well-supported horses. Avoid betting on two high-risk horses, as one loss will negate the bet.
Trebles: Betting on Three Selections
A Treble is a natural progression from a Double, involving three selections across different races. As with the Double, all three selections must win for the bet to be successful. The main difference is that the potential payout is larger due to the inclusion of an additional selection and thus more risk.
Best Practice for Trebles:
Use Trebles for a Mix of Risk and Stability: Similar to Doubles, a good strategy might be to combine a solid favorite with a couple of higher-odds horses. This approach keeps the risk more manageable while still capitalizing on big potential returns.
Research Thoroughly: Given the added selections, a Treble requires careful research. Focus on races where you have a strong understanding of form, track conditions, trainer and the horses' abilities.
Accumulators: Betting on Four or More Selections
An Accumulator is a more complex bet, involving four or more selections. The concept is the same as Doubles and Trebles—each selection must win for the bet to pay out—but the payout is significantly higher because the odds are multiplied for every added selection.
Best Practice for Accumulators:
Consider Smaller Accumulators: If you're not ready to place a massive accumulator, consider smaller, more manageable ones (e.g., a 4-fold accumulator instead of a 6-fold). This reduces the overall risk while still offering enhanced returns.
Set Limits: Given the high risk, it's important to set a budget for Accumulators. Bet within your means, as the risk of losing the entire bet is much higher.
Each-Way Betting Tips for Cheltenham
An each-way bet is a popular betting strategy, especially in horse racing, that consists of two parts: a win bet and a place bet. Here's a breakdown of how it works:
Win Bet: This part of the bet is for your selection to win the race.
Place Bet: This part of the bet is for your selection to finish in one of the top positions (usually 2nd, 3rd, or 4th, depending on the race and the bookmaker's terms).
When you place an each-way bet, you are making two separate bets of equal amounts. For example, if you place a £5 each-way bet, your total stake will be £10 (£5 on the win and £5 on the place).
How Each-Way Bets Work
Winning Scenario: If your horse wins the race, both the win and place parts of your bet are successful. You will receive a payout for both.
Placing Scenario: If your horse finishes in one of the top positions but does not win, only the place part of your bet is successful. You will receive a payout for the place bet, which is usually a fraction of the win odds (commonly 1/4 or 1/5 of the win odds).
Example: Corach Rambler in the 2024 Gold Cup
Let's say you place a £5 each-way bet on Corach Rambler at 14/1 odds in the 2024 Cheltenham Gold Cup, where three places are paid at 1/5 of the odds.
Total Stake: £10 (£5 for the win and £5 for the place).
If Corach Rambler Wins:
Win Bet: £5 x 14/1 = £70 + £5 stake = £75
Place Bet (at 1/5 of 14/1, or 2.8/1): £5 x 2.8/1 = £14 + £5 stake = £19
Total Return: £75 (win bet) + £19 (place bet) = £94
If Corach Rambler Places (but Does Not Win):
Win Bet: Loses.
Place Bet (at 1/5 of 14/1, or 2.8/1): £5 x 2.8/1 = £14 + £5 stake = £19
Total Return: £19 (place bet only)
H3: Following Market Movement
The Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest events in horse racing, and the betting markets often experience significant movements. These shifts can provide valuable insights into which horses are gaining momentum and why.
How Market Movements Affect Horse Odds
Shortening Odds: When a horse is heavily backed, its odds shorten. This suggests that bettors have increased confidence in its chances of winning, often due to strong performances or positive news.
Drifting Odds: When a horse receives fewer bets, its odds drift, indicating a decline in confidence from bettors or a change in circumstances.
When to Bet Big Based on Market Movements
Heavily Backed Horses: A horse that's being heavily backed leading up to the race may indicate insider knowledge or strong public confidence. This could be an ideal time to place a larger bet.
Last-Minute Bets: By placing bets closer to race time, bettors can gain more insight into the market's trends and how sentiment is shifting.
Example: Jasmin De Vaux's Surge in the Betting
Following an impressive performance at Naas where Patrick Mullins merely has to steer Jasmin De Vaux to victory on her bumper debut, the horse saw a significant shift in the betting markets. Her odds for the Champion Bumper dropped dramatically from 16/1 to 6/1 after the performance, reflecting a surge in confidence from bettors. She ultimately triumphed at 9/2, showcasing how market movements can be influenced by strong showings and quickly adapt to shifting perceptions ahead of major races like Cheltenham.
Timing Your Bets at Cheltenham 2025
The timing of your bets at the Cheltenham Festival can play a crucial role in maximizing your returns. There are distinct advantages and risks to both early (ante-post) betting and waiting until closer to race day.
When to Place Your Bets: Early vs. Race Day Considerations
Early Betting (Ante-Post)
Pros:
Better Odds: Placing a bet early, particularly in ante-post markets, allows you to lock in higher odds before the market reacts to any changes. This can result in a bigger payout if your selection performs well. For example, you could have got the 16/1 on Jasmin De Vaux if you backed her before her run at Naas.
Early Insights: You may have a chance to back a horse at long odds before its potential becomes widely recognized.
Exclusive Markets: Ante-post betting gives access to markets before they open, which can provide opportunities if you have insider knowledge or early tips.
Cons:
Risk of Non-Runner: The major downside of ante-post betting is that the horse may be withdrawn from the race before race day, leaving you with a lost stake.
Changes in Form or Injury: Horses can suffer injuries or poor form after you've placed the bet, and by betting early, you may not be able to react to these developments.
If you had backed Jasmin De Vaux at 16/1 before her run at Naas and she disappointed her price would likely drift and you will have lost value on your bet.
Race Day Betting
Pros:
Up-to-Date Information: By waiting until race day, you have access to the most recent information, including weather conditions, final form, jockey changes, and last-minute tips. This allows you to make a more informed decision.
Market Movements: Bettors who wait can also benefit from tracking market shifts, as heavily backed horses often indicate strong public confidence or insider information.
Flexibility: You can make last-minute adjustments to your bets based on your own research and what you observe closer to race time.
Cons:
Shorter Odds: Waiting until the last minute may result in lower odds, particularly if the horse you're interested in has gained significant backing. The best odds may have already been taken.
Pressure of Decision-Making: The closer you get to race time, the more rushed the decision-making process may become, leading to less thorough evaluation.
Cheltenham Betting Offers: Free Bets and Promotions
As the Cheltenham Festival approaches, many bookmakers offer exciting free bet promotions and special offers to enhance your betting experience.
For the most up-to-date offers and a dedicated page for Cheltenham promotions, you can visit Oddschecker.
We will add specific Cheltenham offers closer to the event, ensuring you have access to the best deals available.
Check out our dedicated free bets offers page for the latest offers or check back in closer to the Festival.
Predictions for Cheltenham Festival 2025
Top Horses to Watch: Predictions on Standout Performances
Provide predictions for the top-performing horses expected at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival. Offer insights into their form, pedigree, and previous performances at the festival.
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Key Trainers and Jockeys to Follow for Cheltenham 2025
Trainer and Jockey Performance Statistics
Top Cheltenham Festival Trainers
Willie Mullins
Number of Wins: 100 Cheltenham Festival winners
Major Races Won: Multiple wins in the Champion Hurdle, Cheltenham Gold Cup, and Queen Mother Champion Chase
Notable Horses: Galopin Des Champs, Ballyburn, Lossiemouth
Nicky Henderson
Number of Wins: 73 Cheltenham Festival winners
Major Races Won: Seven Champion Hurdles, two Cheltenham Gold Cups, and six Queen Mother Champion Chases
Notable Horses: Constitution Hill, Shishkin, Epatante
Gordon Elliott
Number of Wins: 40 Cheltenham Festival winners
Major Races Won: Cheltenham Gold Cup, multiple wins in the Triumph Hurdle and National Hunt Chase
Notable Horses: Tiger Roll, Envoi Allen, Delta Work
Top Jockeys
Paul Townend
Number of Wins: 33 Cheltenham Festival winners
Major Races Won: Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase
Win Percentage: Around 20% at the Cheltenham Festival
Place Percentage: Around 42% at the Cheltenham Festival
Notable Rides: Al Boum Photo, Energumene, Galopin Des Champs
Rachael Blackmore
Number of Wins: 16 Cheltenham Festival winners
Major Races Won: Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle
Win Percentage: Around 16% at the Cheltenham Festival
Place Percentage: Around 29% at the Cheltenham Festival
Notable Rides: Honeysuckle, A Plus Tard, Bob Olinger
Nico de Boinville
Number of Wins: 15 Cheltenham Festival winners
Major Races Won: Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase
Win Percentage: Around 15% at the Cheltenham Festival
Place Percentage: Around 29% at the Cheltenham Festival
Notable Rides: Altior, Shishkin, Constitution Hill
Trainer-Jockey Combinations to Watch
Willie Mullins and Paul Townend
Wins: This duo has been incredibly successful, with Paul Townend riding many of Willie Mullins' top horses to victory.
Major Races Won: They have won multiple Champion Hurdles, Queen Mother Champion Chases, and Cheltenham Gold Cups together (including last year's).
Nicky Henderson and Nico de Boinville
Wins: Nicky Henderson and Nico de Boinville have formed a formidable partnership, particularly in the major hurdle and chase races.
Major Races Won: They have secured victories in the Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase, and Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Gordon Elliott and Davy Russell
Wins: This combination has been highly successful, especially in the longer distance races.
Major Races Won: They have won the Cheltenham Gold Cup and multiple other Grade 1 races.
Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore
Wins: Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore have become one of the most talked-about partnerships in recent years.
Major Races Won: They have won the Cheltenham Gold Cup (first female jockey to do so) and the Champion Hurdle.
Strategic Insight Tips for Cheltenham Bettors
Understanding Course Conditions:
With 28 high-stakes races spread over four days, understanding Cheltenham's unique course conditions can give bettors an edge. A key factor is the track condition, known as the going, which can dramatically influence race outcomes.
Firm: This is dry, hard ground, typically found in warmer months. Horses with a low, gliding stride, sometimes called "daisy cutters," perform well here as it enables them to run at faster speeds with ease.
Good to Firm: Slightly softer than firm ground but still offering speed-friendly conditions. Horses with a low knee action can make the most of this surface, benefiting from its balance of firmness and a bit more give.
Good: The most common and generally fair type of ground, providing a balanced surface for most types of runners. Horses with diverse racing styles adapt well to good ground, making it suitable for competitive, large fields.
Good to Soft: A surface with some added moisture, which provides a bit more cushion. Horses that have versatility in their stride and can handle a slight "give" in the ground are well-suited for good-to-soft conditions.
Soft: Noticeably softer and more holding ground, common in cooler, wetter months. Horses with a higher, rounded knee action excel here, as this stride helps them gain traction and stability on softer surfaces.
Heavy: This very wet, muddy ground is sometimes called a "bog." Horses with notable stamina and a high knee action are best suited for these demanding conditions, as they can power through the thick, slower ground.
Each type of ground brings unique challenges, so understanding how different horses respond to these conditions is key for placing strategic bets at Cheltenham.
Horses such as Hewick, a winner of the King George VI Chase, require good ground. He was pulled out of the 2024 Cheltenham Gold Cup due to the track being too soft for him.
His trainer, Hanlon, said "He's a horse of a lifetime, but he just needs decent ground and he's not going to get that on Friday. It's soft."
Perhaps he is a horse to watch out for if the going is soft in the 2025 Gold Cup.
Cheltenham Hill
Adding to the challenge is Cheltenham's infamous uphill finish, known as Cheltenham Hill, which tests stamina in the closing stages. Horses that lead comfortably earlier in the race may falter on the incline, allowing others to pass them in the late stages. Bettors often look for horses proven to handle the Hill, as its impact can change the complexion of the race in the final moments.
How to Use Cheltenham Racecourse Form to Your Advantage
Cheltenham Course Layout: Old vs. New Courses
Cheltenham Racecourse, located in the picturesque Cotswolds, is renowned for its challenging layout and unique features, which play a significant role in the outcome of races and thus the bets and tips you should follow.
The racecourse is divided into two main tracks: the Old Course and the New Course, each with its distinct characteristics.
Feature/Characteristic | Old Course | New Course |
Location on Track | Outer sections | Inner sections |
Course Layout | Faster, sharp turns, and quicker descents | Gradual descents with a longer uphill climb |
Back Straight | Turns sharply across the New Course at the top of the hill | Continues straight and descends more gradually |
Descent | Sharp descent, enabling horses to gain momentum | Gradual descent, requiring more endurance |
Climb | Shorter climb in the home straight | Longer, sustained climb in the final stretch |
Pace | Faster; harder to make up ground if trailing | Slower; possible to make up ground if pace is too quick |
Race Characteristics | Suits horses with speed and agility | Suits horses with stamina and endurance |
Riding Strategy | Less patience needed; pace is key to maintain position | Requires patience; timed moves are essential |
Best for | Speed-focused horses | Stamina-focused horses |
The New Course, situated on the innermost part of the track, has a galloping design and is more demanding in terms of stamina. It is more of a stamina test, with a longer, more gradual descent and a more extended climb up the Cheltenham Hill. On the New Course, riders must be patient and time their moves carefully.
The Old Course, on the outer sections, is known for being faster. It features sharper turns and a quicker descent, allowing horses to gather momentum and reach the home straight with less time climbing. However, it's harder to recover lost ground on the Old Course, so pace plays a crucial role.
In summary, the Old Course favors speed and agility, while the New Course tests stamina and endurance, challenging riders to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Cheltenham Festival Betting Statistics
Cheltenham Jockey Statistics
Jockey | Races-Wins-Places |
Paul Townend | 164-33-69 |
Rachael Blackmore | 102-16-30 |
Nico de Boinville | 101-15-29 |
Jack Kennedy | 90-11-37 |
Mark Walsh | 99-10-29 |
Harry Skelton | 93-9-23 |
Cheltenham Favourites Statistics
Year | Races | Fav Winners | Percentage |
2024 | 26 | 8 | 30.77% |
2023 | 25 | 7 | 28.57% |
2022 | 25 | 11 | 44.00% |
2021 | 28 | 8 | 28.57% |
2020 | 23 | 7 | 30.43% |
2019 | 26 | 9 | 34.62% |
2018 | 27 | 8 | 29.63% |
2017 | 27 | 6 | 22.22% |
Cheltenham Odds On Favourite Statistics
Year | Odds On Favs | Odds On Fav Wins | Percentage |
2024 | 7 | 5 | 71.43% |
2023 | 3 | 2 | 66.66% |
2022 | 5 | 3 | 60.00% |
2021 | 7 | 3 | 42.86% |
2020 | 6 | 1 | 16.67% |
2019 | 2 | 1 | 50.00% |
2018 | 6 | 4 | 66.67% |
2017 | 3 | 1 | 33.33% |
2016 | 4 | 3 | 75.00% |
2015 | 3 | 2 | 66.67% |
Applying Favourite Strike Rates to Your Cheltenham Betting Strategy
Outright Favourites Strike Rate:
Across the last eight festivals, outright favourites won roughly 31% of the time, with 64 winners out of 207 favourite selections.
Variability by year highlights how these rates fluctuate; for instance, 2022 saw a high with a 44% strike rate, while other years, like 2017, were as low as 22.22%.
Interpretation: The lower strike rate in some years reflects Cheltenham's notorious unpredictability, where backing a favourite doesn't guarantee a win. Bettors should consider whether they're in a year with stronger favourites or a more unpredictable lineup before placing outright bets on favourites.
Odds-On Favourites Strike Rate:
When favourites are priced at odds-on (indicating a stronger likelihood to win), the strike rate increases, with a 71.43% success rate in 2024 and a notable 75% in 2016.
However, even odds-on favourites have experienced dips (e.g., only a 16.67% success rate in 2020), underscoring that heavy favourites still carry some risk.
Interpretation: For odds-on favourites, bettors can generally feel more confident given the historically higher strike rates, but these numbers suggest that caution is still warranted.
Key Meetings Leading Up to the Cheltenham Festival
Cheltenham Festival Trial Days
Focusing on the meetings held in the months leading up to the Cheltenham Festival is crucial for bettors. These meetings serve as key form indicators, helping to identify potential horses, jockeys, and trainers who may be serious contenders at the festival. For those interested in ante-post betting, these early insights can be particularly advantageous.
Key Pre-Cheltenham Meetings
The November Meeting: This three-day event is one of the most informative pre-festival meetings. It often features horses that go on to perform well at the Cheltenham Festival. Notable races include the BetVictor Gold Cup and the Greatwood Hurdle.
The December Meeting: Another important fixture, providing insights into horses' form and fitness as they prepare for the festival.
New Year's Day Meeting: This meeting includes the Grade 2 Dipper Novices' Chase, which has been a stepping stone for many festival winners.
Festival Trials Day: Held in late January, it is the final race meeting before the Cheltenham Festival in March.
Festival Trials Day
One of the most significant pre-festival meetings is Festival Trials Day, usually held in late January, about six weeks before the Cheltenham Festival. This meeting is particularly important for several reasons:
Form Indicators: Festival Trials Day features several key races that mirror the conditions and challenges of the Cheltenham Festival. Performances on this day can provide valuable insights into which horses are peaking at the right time.
Race Conditions: The races on Trials Day are run over similar distances and conditions to those at the festival, making it an excellent form guide.
Trainer and Jockey Strategies: Trainers and jockeys often use this meeting to test their horses' readiness and make final adjustments before the festival.
Notable Races on Festival Trials Day
Cotswold Chase: A key trial for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Cleeve Hurdle: Often a strong indicator for the Stayers' Hurdle.
Classic Novices' Hurdle: A trial for the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle.
The Christmas Meeting
The Christmas Festival at Cheltenham is a key event in the jump racing season, held every December at Cheltenham Racecourse. While it offers its own standout races, its significance mainly lies in how performances here impact the betting markets for the Cheltenham Festival in March.
Notable races in the Christmas Festival include events for novice hurdlers and chasers, which often reveal potential favorites for March. For instance, strong performances in novice races can lead to odds cuts for events like the Supreme Novices' Hurdle, Ballymore Novices' Hurdle, and Arkle Chase.
The Open
The November Meeting, also known as ‘The Open', is a crucial event in the National Hunt season, setting the stage for serious preparations for the Cheltenham Festival in March
Key Races
1. Paddy Power Gold Cup
Date: Saturday, November 16th
Overview: This is a premier handicap chase over 2 miles and 4 furlongs. It's one of the most prestigious early-season races and often features horses that go on to compete in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Impact on Betting: Strong performances here can significantly shorten a horse's odds for the Gold Cup and other major races at the Festival. It provides a clear indicator of a horse's form and ability to handle the Cheltenham track.
For instance, Imperial Commander won this race in 2008 and went on to win the 2009 Festival Trophy Chase and then the 2010 Cheltenham Festival Gold Cup.
Coole Cody won the Paddy Power Gold Cup at the November Meeting in 2020. He then went on to win the Plate Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March 2021.
2. Greatwood Hurdle
Date: Sunday, November 17th
Overview: This is a premier handicap hurdle over 2 miles and ½ furlong. It's a key race for hurdlers, often featuring horses that are being aimed at the Champion Hurdle.
Impact on Betting: A good run in the Greatwood Hurdle can see a horse's odds shorten for the Champion Hurdle, as it highlights their speed and agility over hurdles.
The Shunter won the Greatwood Hurdle in 2020 and went on to win the Paddy Power Plate Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021.
Cheltenham Guide: History and Key Stats
Overview of the Cheltenham Festival's Historical Significance
The Cheltenham Festival stands as a pinnacle of National Hunt racing, boasting a rich history that began in the 1860s and has grown into one of the UK's most iconic sporting events.
Initially a single-day affair, it has expanded into a thrilling four-day festival, drawing over 250,000 fans annually.
The festival has become the highlight of the jump racing season, providing intense competition across its 28 races and producing unforgettable moments that have shaped the sport's legacy
Key Facts About Cheltenham's History
1860: The first Cheltenham Festival, originally known as the National Hunt Meeting, was held.
1924: The Cheltenham Gold Cup was introduced, becoming one of the most prestigious races in National Hunt racing.
1934: Golden Miller became the first horse to win both the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in the same season.
1960: The Champion Hurdle was established, adding another major race to the Festival.
1980: Dawn Run became the only horse to win both the Champion Hurdle and the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
2001: The Festival was cancelled due to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, marking one of the few times it has not been held.
2009-2014: Quevega won the Mares' Hurdle six consecutive times, setting a record for the most consecutive victories in any Cheltenham Festival race.
2016: Ruby Walsh set the record for the most wins by a jockey in a single year at the Festival, with seven victories.
2021: Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to be leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival with six victories, including the Champion Hurdle3. She also became the first female jockey to win the Grand National.
2022: Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup, riding A Plus Tard to victory.
Notable Cheltenham Races and Winners Over Time
The Cheltenham Festival is renowned for its iconic races, each with its own rich history and memorable winners. Here are some of the most notable races:
Cheltenham Gold Cup: The pinnacle of National Hunt racing, featuring legendary winners like Arkle, Best Mate, and Kauto Star.
Champion Hurdle: The premier hurdle race, with famous winners such as Istabraq and Hurricane Fly.
Queen Mother Champion Chase: A top-class chase for two-mile specialists, with notable winners like Sprinter Sacre and Altior.
Stayers' Hurdle: The leading long-distance hurdle race, with memorable champions like Big Buck's and Paisley Park.
Ryanair Chase: A key race for intermediate-distance chasers, with winners like Un De Sceaux and Allaho.
Memorable Winners
Arkle: Dominated the Gold Cup in the mid-1960s, winning three consecutive times (1964-1966).
Best Mate: Achieved three consecutive Gold Cup victories (2002-2004).
Kauto Star: Won the Gold Cup twice (2007, 2009) and is the only horse to regain the title.
Hurricane Fly: Won the Champion Hurdle twice (2011, 2013).
Sprinter Sacre: Made a remarkable comeback to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase in 2016 after winning it in 2013.
Cheltenham Gold Cup Winners
Year | Winner | Jockey | Trainer |
2024 | Galopin Des Champs | Paul Townend | W. P. Mullins |
2023 | Galopin Des Champs | Paul Townend | W. P. Mullins |
2022 | A Plus Tard | Rachael Blackmore | Henry de Bromhead |
2021 | Minella Indo | Jack Kennedy | Henry de Bromhead |
2020 | Al Boum Photo | Paul Townend | W. P. Mullins |
2019 | Al Boum Photo | Paul Townend | W. P. Mullins |
2018 | Native River | Richard Johnson | Colin Tizzard |
2017 | Sizing John | Robbie Power | Jessica Harrington |
2016 | Don Cossack | Bryan Cooper | Gordon Elliott |
2015 | Coneygree | Nico de Boinville | Mark Bradstock |
How Injuries, Withdrawals, and Weather Can Impact Tips
Injuries
Market Impact: Injuries to key horses can drastically change betting odds. Stay updated on horse health to make informed bets.
Withdrawals
Lost Stakes: Bets on withdrawn horses are lost unless placed in NRNB (Non-Runner No Bet) markets, which refund your stake if the horse doesn't run.
Odds Shifts: Withdrawals can cause significant changes in the betting markets, with new favourites emerging.
Weather Conditions
Track Impact: Weather affects track conditions, influencing which horses perform well. For example, rain can lead to softer ground, favouring certain horses (see earlier section on understanding course conditions).
Form Consideration: Analyze how different weather conditions might impact horse performance.
Real-Time Tip Adjustments Based on Festival News
When betting on the Cheltenham Festival, staying up-to-date with the latest insights can be crucial for making informed choices. Conditions at the festival can shift rapidly, whether it's due to changes in the ground, last-minute announcements regarding jockey or horse form, or unexpected updates on trainers' strategies. These factors often impact betting trends, which is why it's key to revisit oddschecker regularly for the most current tips and analysis.
Our tipsters at oddschecker take a comprehensive approach, analyzing all relevant information before providing their recommended bets. They consider everything from recent race results and ground conditions to a horse's prior performance and any noteworthy news about jockeys or trainers. As the festival approaches, they'll continuously adapt their tips based on evolving trends and fresh insights, so bettors can always rely on oddschecker for expert-backed and timely predictions.
Responsible Gambling at Cheltenham Festival 2025
While the Cheltenham Festival is a thrilling time for racing fans, it's essential to approach it responsibly, especially considering the risks of impulsive betting. Oddschecker prioritizes responsible gambling, encouraging everyone to enjoy the excitement while staying in control of their betting choices.
For those who may need additional support, there are resources available:
GamCare offers various services, including their 24/7 National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and online chat, for individuals looking for guidance on managing gambling behaviors. Their website also includes tools like self-exclusion options, money management advice, and access to blocking software for gambling sites, helping bettors maintain control
GambleAware
GamCare
BeGambleAware provides resources for education and support. They help with setting limits, recognizing problem signs, and connecting with local assistance if necessary
GambleAware
For those looking for self-management tools, MyGamCare offers a personalized platform for tracking moods, setting goals, and accessing helpful resources in managing gambling habits
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to place bets for Cheltenham?
The best time to place bets for Cheltenham and maximize value is often early in the ante-post markets to secure better odds. However, waiting until bookmakers offer "Non-Runner No Bet" (NRNB) options can reduce the risk of losing your stake if your horse doesn't run.
For those wanting the latest insights, betting closer to race day provides more up-to-date information on runners' health, form, weather, and final lineups. It also gives you access to more tips that will be published closer to the date of the Festival.
What types of bets are popular for Cheltenham?
Popular bets at Cheltenham include:
Win Bet: Betting on a horse to win.
Each-Way Bet: Betting on a horse to win or place.
Forecast/Tricast: Predicting the first two or three finishers in order.
Accumulator: Combining multiple bets into one for higher returns.
Placepot: Betting on horses to place in the first six races of the day.
Is it better to bet on favourites or look for value in outsiders at Cheltenham?
Both strategies have their merits. Betting on favourites can be safer, but Cheltenham is known for its surprises (see ‘Cheltenham Festival Betting Statistics' section above), making it worthwhile to look for value in outsiders.
Many successful bettors mix both approaches, backing strong favourites while also placing smaller bets on high-odds horses
When does the Cheltenham Festival begin?
The Cheltenham Festival 2025 begins on Tuesday, March 11 and runs until Friday, March 14
How can I stay updated on the latest Cheltenham betting tips and news?
To stay on top of Cheltenham Festival betting tips and the latest news, you can rely on Oddschecker's dedicated pages. Check out our Cheltenham Festival Tips Page here to get tips and expert advice from our seasoned tipsters. Additionally, keep up with updates, in-depth analyses, and festival highlights on our Insight Page here. These resources will keep you informed on the latest tips and festival news.
