Altior and Douvan set for Cheltenham battle

Altior and Douvan remain on course for a mouthwatering clash at Cheltenham on Wednesday after both featured among 10 confirmations for the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Nicky Henderson's Altior has missed much of the season after undergoing a wind operation in the autumn, but is odds-on across the board to claim his third Festival success following a sparkling reappearance at Newbury last month.

The Willie Mullins-trained Douvan has not been seen in competitive action since suffering a shock defeat and injury in this race a year ago, but as a former winner of the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and the Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham - like Altior - he will be a fascinating contender if he returns to Prestbury Park next week.

Whether Douvan makes the journey across the Irish Sea or not, Mullins has confirmed his intention to saddle Min. The seven-year-old was runner-up to Altior in the Supreme two years ago and produced what was arguably his most polished performance over fences to date in the Coral Dublin Chase at Leopardstown last month.

Mullins has also left in Un De Sceaux, although he is more likely to defend his crown in the Ryanair Chase on Thursday.

Last year's Champion Chase hero Special Tiara is one of two contenders for Henry de Bromhead, along with Ordinary World.

The Paul Nicholls-trained Politologue, Gary Moore's Ar Mad, Kim Bailey's Charbel and God's Own from Tom George's yard complete the possible line-up.