The Cheltenham Festival 2025 kicked off yesterday, Tuesday 11th March at Prestbury Park, with Champion Day setting the stage for four days of high-class National Hunt racing.
This iconic event sees top horses, jockeys, and trainers compete in a packed schedule, and the opening day is no exception. The Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, one of the festival’s key races, has been renamed in tribute to Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan, who tragically passed away in February 2025 at the age of 24 following a fall at Thurles racecourse. O’Sullivan had claimed victory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 2023 aboard Marine Nationale, and the renaming honours his immense contribution to the sport.
Champion Day’s card features seven races, including the My Pension Expert Arkle Novices’ Chase, the Ultima Handicap Chase, and the prestigious Unibet Champion Hurdle. Constitution Hill, the favourite for the Champion Hurdle, makes his return to the track after missing the 2024 race due to injury.
Broadcasting Details
Live coverage of the festival will be available on ITV1 and Racing TV, with Champion Day’s broadcast starting at 12:45pm on ITV1.
Sponsorship News
In a notable change for 2025, BetMGM steps in as the sponsor for the Queen Mother Champion Chase, marking its first year supporting this renowned race. This partnership is part of a broader sponsorship initiative at the festival, bringing fresh promotional activities to the event.
What’s Next at Cheltenham?
After Champion Day, the festival continues with Style Wednesday, St Patrick’s Thursday, and concludes with the much-anticipated Gold Cup Day on Friday. The Cheltenham Gold Cup remains the jewel of the final day, with last year’s winner, Galopin Des Champs, looking to defend his title in a highly competitive field.