Cheltenham Preview Show 2026: Champion Chase

On our 2026 Cheltenham Preview show, which went out on Friday, the panel took a in-depth look at the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

The race has created plenty of debate, not just about the main contenders like Majborough and Marine Nationale, but also about the build-up and how connections have handled their horses.

Sam Norris from William Hill praised trainers and owners who stand by their horses and are bullish about their chances: “I’ve enjoyed the build-up. I like people sticking by the horse and giving it the big talk,” he said. "In a championship race, strong opinions and beliefs from connections only add to the excitement."

Johnny Ward focused on Marine Nationale and his recent run at Leopardstown at the Dublin Racing Festival and feels the former festival winner was badly affected by the ground that day.

Ward questioned whether he should have taken part in that race, but Emma Nagle responded by making the point that people in racing often complain when horses do not run:

“We give out enough in racing when horses don’t run, so just let him run,” she said adding that connections should not be criticised for letting them take their chance.

The discussion then turned to Majborough and the cheekpieces he wore last time. Paddy Flood said:

“The thing with the cheekpieces - if he goes to Cheltenham with them, he goes too hard, right? I think he's had his go with them in Leopardstown. So now he goes to Cheltenham, he might just relax a touch more with them. They're not new and and scary.”

'He looks good fresh'

“The one I want to give a mention to each-way is Irish Panther. If that horse gets into a rhythm like he did in Leopardstown…he was rocket quick at his fences and that wasn't any fluke.

“He looks good fresh and each-way, he's a solid bet.”

In a smaller field, tactics and jumping become even more important. Emma Nagle mentioned Quilixios, who finished second in the race last year and that vibes from trainer Henry de Bromhead have been positive.

While he may not be the headline horse, his previous Festival form means he cannot be ignored completely.

Ground conditions were a major talking point. Johnny Ward believes, if the ground turns soft to heavy, then Marine Nationale will struggle to win but on better ground, he would have a much stronger chance.

Ward also suggested that each-way betting could be the smart move, especially in a small field.

If Majborough makes even one serious mistake at his fences, it could open the door for others.

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Watch our full 2026 Cheltenham Festival Preview