With the Cheltenham Festival 2026 kicking off on Tuesday 10 March, the Champion Hurdle odds for the opening day’s feature race at 16:00 are heating up fast.
The prestigious 2m ½f Grade 1 hurdle remains one of the highlights of National Hunt racing, and ante-post markets reflect a wide-open renewal following the absence of previous dominants like Constitution Hill (switched to Flat) and Sir Gino (injured).
Lossiemouth currently leads the Champion Hurdle odds and have been backed in the Tuesday Cheltenham ante-post betting, closely chased by The New Lion and Brighterdaysahead.
Progressive types and proven mares offer strong each-way value, with Non-Runner No Bet widely available across major firms.
Champion Hurdle 2026 Betting Odds
- Lossiemouth – 13/8
- The New Lion – 5/2
- Brighterdaysahead – 5/1
- Golden Ace – 10/1
- Poniros – 14/1
- Alexei – 16/1
- Anzadam – 22/1
- Tutti Quanti – 25/1
- Workahead – 66/1
Odds last updated: Tuesday 4th March 2026. Odds are subject to change. Feel free to use these Champion Hurdle odds in any news publications. Please credit sportscasting.com/uk if you’re using.
The New Lion No Longer the Clear Market Leader
Dan Skelton’s The New Lion had surged to the top of the Champion Hurdle odds after a series of strong performances, before dropping behind Lossiemouth in the betting.
The seven-year-old boasts near-perfect hurdle form (five from six), with his only setback a fall in the Fighting Fifth.
He’s proven at Cheltenham and handles the stiff finish superbly.
Skelton’s rising profile at the Festival and the horse’s tactical speed and jumping fluency make him a compelling bet at around 5/2.
Many punters see him as the British hope to end recent Irish dominance in the race.
Lossiemouth Remains a Serious Threat for Mullins
Willie Mullins’ Lossiemouth is the new favourite for the Champion Hurdle odds at 13/8.
The seven-year-old mare has multiple Grade 1 successes, including strong Cheltenham form, and her tactical versatility allows her to sit handy or come late.
While her route (Champion vs Mares’ Hurdle) remains a question mark, connections are bullish if she lines up here.
Mullins’ exceptional record in the Champion Hurdle and Paul Townend’s presence add significant confidence – she’s the class act among the mares and a live danger if fresh.
Brighterdaysahead Flying High After Irish Champion Success
Gordon Elliott’s Brighterdaysahead has climbed the Champion Hurdle odds ladder following a convincing win in the Irish Champion Hurdle, reversing form with rivals.
The seven-year-old mare shows real progression, travels strongly, and has the scope to handle Cheltenham’s demands.
At 5/1, she offers excellent each-way value in an open market, especially for those backing Irish challengers to continue their stronghold.
When Is The Champion Hurdle 2026?
The Unibet Champion Hurdle takes place on Tuesday 10 March 2026 at 16:00.
Where Is The Champion Hurdle Being Run?
The race is staged over 2 miles ½ furlong on the Old Course at Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire.
It features eight hurdles and the famous uphill finish that sorts the pretenders from the true champions.
Champion Hurdle Past Winners (Last 10 Years)
- 2025 – Golden Ace
- 2024 – State Man
- 2023 – Constitution Hill
- 2022 – Honeysuckle
- 2021 – Honeysuckle
- 2020 – Epatante
- 2019 – Espoir d’Allen
- 2018 – Buveur d’Air
- 2017 – Buveur d’Air
- 2016 – Annie Power
