Past Winners and Festival Heroes
Course form always comes to prominence at Cheltenham, and this November it could be past November Meeting winners who hold the key to the outcome of Friday’s racing. However, punters may need to look towards the 2026 Cheltenham Festival for clues to Saturday’s Paddy Power Gold Cup, with multiple Festival winners featuring in the early entries.
Friday to Sunday: Who's Set to Line Up
Friday sees star chaser Jonbon headline, as Nicky Henderson’s superstar looks to maintain his incredible record of never finishing outside the first two. In the newly introduced Veteran’s Chase, 2022 Paddy Power Gold Cup winner Ga Law is also set to feature as he bids for a third victory at Prestbury Park.
Saturday promises plenty of Festival interest, with JP McManus holding a strong hand through last year’s Jack Richards Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase winner Meetmebythesea, who heads the betting. 2026 Ultima Handicap Chase winner Jonnywho is also set to line up in the famous green and gold silks, while Madara, another winner at last year’s Festival, is set to feature for Dan and Harry Skelton.
Sunday’s headline race could see former Greatwood Hurdle winner and Champion Hurdle runner-up Burdett Road take to the track. Last year’s winner, Alexei, went on to perform creditably in the Champion Hurdle, and this time around much of the discussion centres on whether Idaho Sun could follow a similar path.
With established stars, Festival winners and exciting contenders all in the mix, The November Meeting looks set to deliver a fascinating weekend of National Hunt racing.