Cheltenham Festival 2026, explained: Dates, race times, course guide and where to watch

Telegraph Sport Mon, 9 February 2026 at 10:44 am UTC·12 min read The jump racing season builds towards the Cheltenham Festival when the very best horses and one of the most knowledgeable crowds in sport gather for four days of revelry and drama. The cream of the crop from Ireland, led by Willie Mullins’ ever-strong team, will do battle against the best of British with trainer Dan Skelton likely to provide most resistance from the home team.Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each day features a championship race: the Champion Hurdle on Tuesday, the Queen Mother Champion Chase on Wednesday, the Stayers’ Hurdle on Thursday and of course Friday’s Gold Cup. Champion Hurdle favourite Sir...