The Cheltenham Festival 2025 is set to showcase some of the most talented horses in National Hunt racing.
As one of the biggest racing festivals in the world, Cheltenham consistently attracts elite contenders across multiple categories, from champion hurdlers to steeplechase legends.
Here, we highlight the most exciting horses expected to dominate the festival and their chances of glory.
A lot of this information below has been gathered using betting and horse racing experts Talk Sport.
Their pages on each race have been helping bettors around the UK in picking the horses they think will win.
And now, with Talk Sport’s free bets on 2025 Cheltenham page, you can have a risk-free bet on the horses they recommend.
1. Constitution Hill – Champion Hurdle Favourite
Constitution Hill has been nothing short of phenomenal in recent years, winning the Champion Hurdle in style and maintaining an unbeaten record.
Trained by Nicky Henderson, he is widely regarded as one of the best hurdlers of his generation.
If he lines up for the Champion Hurdle again in 2025, he will likely start as the overwhelming favourite.
2. Galopin Des Champs – Gold Cup Defending Champion
The reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Galopin Des Champs, will be back to defend his crown.
Trained by Willie Mullins, he has shown remarkable consistency, blending stamina with speed.
After a commanding performance in the 2024 Gold Cup, he remains the top contender for this prestigious race in 2025.
3. El Fabiolo – Leading Contender for the Champion Chase
Another powerhouse from the Willie Mullins stable, El Fabiolo, has emerged as one of the most exciting two-mile chasers.
He is expected to challenge for the Queen Mother Champion Chase, taking on some of the best speed horses in the festival.
If his form holds, he could dominate the division.
4. Jonbon – Rising Star in the Chase Division
Jonbon, trained by Nicky Henderson, continues to impress in the chase division.
A strong finisher with an ability to handle Cheltenham’s demanding course, he is a serious threat in races such as the Champion Chase or Ryanair Chase, depending on where he is entered.
5. Lossiemouth – Mare to Watch in the Hurdle Races
Lossiemouth is a rising star in the hurdling scene, especially in the Mares’ Hurdle division.
Trained by Willie Mullins, she has the ability to step up and take on stronger fields.
With impressive speed and stamina, she could provide a serious challenge to more experienced hurdlers.
6. Corbetts Cross – A Potential Stayer’s Hurdle Contender
Corbetts Cross has been gaining attention for his staying ability and could be a leading challenger in the Stayers’ Hurdle.
He has shown remarkable endurance in long-distance races, making him a prime candidate for one of Cheltenham’s most demanding contests.
7. Fact To File – Rising Chase Star
A young and improving chaser, Fact To File has been tipped for success in major races at Cheltenham.
Trained by Willie Mullins, he has showcased remarkable ability over fences and could be a strong contender in novice chases or even step up to an open championship race.
8. Marine Nationale – Novice Chase Superstar
After a dominant campaign in the novice hurdle division, Marine Nationale is expected to make a seamless transition to fences.
He has the potential to make a major impact in the Arkle Challenge Trophy or Turner's Novices’ Chase at the 2025 festival.
9. State Man – Challenger for the Champion Hurdle
State Man has consistently been one of the biggest threats in the hurdling division.
Trained by Willie Mullins, he finished second to Constitution Hill in 2024 and will likely have another chance to challenge him in the Champion Hurdle.
10. Banbridge – A Strong Gold Cup Contender
Banbridge, the impressive King George VI Chase winner, has a solid chance in the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup, particularly if the ground remains favourable, as he has historically struggled on softer surfaces.
Despite being a top-class contender, Banbridge faces stiff competition from the likes of Galopin Des Champs, who is seeking a hat-trick in the event.
With Banbridge's proven stamina over three miles and his affinity for left-handed tracks, he could certainly trouble the favourites if conditions suit him.
Final Thoughts
With such a stellar lineup of horses set to compete at the Cheltenham Festival 2025, fans can expect four days of thrilling action.
From defending champions to emerging stars, the festival will be a battleground for racing’s elite.
Whether it’s the Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, or the many other Grade 1 races, these names are the ones to watch when the festival begins.
Stay tuned for more updates and expert analysis as the big event approaches!
