Five-time champion Flat jockey Oisin Murphy has been booked to ride the legendary Constitution Hill in his Flat racing debut at Southwell on February 20, 2026.
The former Champion Hurdle winner, trained by Nicky Henderson, is set to swap the turf and hurdles for the All-Weather in a bid to revitalize a career that has been hampered by jumping errors in recent seasons.
A Star-Studded Partnership As Oisin Murphy Confirmed at Constitution Hill Jockey For Southwell Run
The announcement comes after Murphy visited Henderson’s famed Seven Barrows yard on Wednesday morning, February 4, to get acquainted with the 9-year-old gelding.
The pair reportedly completed a piece of work that included stalls practice and a strong gallop.
“Oisin came in and rode him this morning,” Henderson told the Press Association.
“He had another bit of stalls practice and then he had a gallop and Oisin was happy. I’m very happy to have Oisin.”
The choice of Murphy, one of the premier Flat riders in the world, signals the seriousness of this unconventional move.
While Henderson also considered other top flat jockeys, the lure of Murphy’s tactical expertise on the level proved decisive for owner Michael Buckley.
The Southwell Mission For Constitution Hill
The race in question is a £40,000 novice stakes over 1m 4f, sponsored by SBK. It forms part of the “Friday Night Live” series, designed to bring high-profile action to the All-Weather circuit.
The decision to run on the Flat follows a frustrating period for the horse, who has fallen in three of his last four starts over hurdles.
Most recently in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle back in November this season.
This Southwell run is viewed as a “litmus test” to see if the horse retains his competitive fire without the mental or physical pressure of jumping.
Road to Cheltenham?
Despite the diversion to the Flat, the shadow of the 2026 Cheltenham Festival still looms.
Constitution Hill remains entered in the 2026 Champion Hurdle on March 10, but Henderson has been cautious about making any promises.
- The Flat Goal: Determine if the horse’s engine is still intact
- The Hurdles Goal: Re-evaluate jumping technique if the Southwell run is successful
- The Retirement Factor: If he fails to fire on the All-Weather, connections may have to consider the star’s future on the track
Constitution Hill is currently the general third favourite in the Champion Hurdle betting market at 4/1.
With The New Lion and recent Dublin Racing Festival winner Brighterdaysahead, who landed the Irish Champion Hurdle, disputing the favourites berth.
While last year’s shock winner Golden Ace is 6/1 to back up her win in 2026.
Champion Hurdle Betting Odds 2026Â
- The New Lion 2/1
- Brighterdaysahead 9/4
- Constitution Hill 4/1
- Lossiemouth 4/1
- Golden Ace 6/1
- 16/1 BAR
Note: Champion Hurdle betting odds are subject to change
WATCH Constitution Hill Winning The 2023 Champion HurdleÂ
Constitution Hill Career In Numbers
- Runs: 14
- Wins: 10
- Grade One Wins: 8
- Falls: 3
- Career Prize Money: £881,823
