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Willie Mullins discusses his Cheltenham Festival squad for 2026, including the likes of Lossiemouth, Fact To File, Kopek Des Bordes.
Cheltenham Gold Cup
Much of the discussion centred on where Fact To File will line up. Willie Mullins made clear that the decision ultimately rests with owner JP McManus, pointing out that JP has multiple Gold Cup options and may view the extra two furlongs as a risk rather than an opportunity. Mullins acknowledged that Leopardstown transformed perceptions, with many suddenly viewing Fact To File as a leading Gold Cup contender rather than a Ryanair horse.
On Galopin Des Champs, Mullins admitted disappointment at Leopardstown but stressed there were positives to take. He felt the run may bring him forward fitness-wise and suggested that not having a brutal mid-season battle could benefit him. He noted that sometimes defeat provides the perfect platform for a peak performance in March.
Gaelic Warrior was described as a maturing horse who prefers some ease in the ground. Mullins highlighted that his physical strength and improved temperament now allow him to fulfil more of his potential. Sentiment clearly plays a part, with Mullins admitting Galopin holds a special place in his heart, but he acknowledged Fact To File may be the one the head says is hardest to beat.
Queen Mother Champion Chase
Mullins was particularly positive about Majborough, whose Dublin Racing Festival performance he described as coming together perfectly under Mark Walsh. The application of cheekpieces appears to have sharpened his focus, and Mullins felt the horse’s improved jumping was key. He believes that if he arrives in similar form, he will be very difficult to beat regardless of quicker ground.
The trainer also addressed the lightly raced Il Etait Temps, who is short on experience over fences. Mullins deliberately avoided a hard race at Leopardstown, instead giving him a searching schooling gallop at Punchestown. He reported that the faster Il Etait Temps went, the better he jumped, and suggested the horse learned significantly from that exercise.
He was not dismissive of others in the division either, acknowledging the depth of two mile novice chasing and the lack of margin for error at championship pace.
Champion Hurdle
The Champion Hurdle picture remains fluid. Mullins felt Brighterdaysahead improved from Christmas to Leopardstown and ran a race that justified her place at the top level. However, he was reluctant to rule out Lossiemouth reversing form, pointing to her outstanding Cheltenham record compared to Brighterdaysahead’s.
He noted that five different horses have looked like Champion Hurdle winners at various stages of the season, which underlines how open the race is. The decision between the Champion Hurdle and the Mares’ Hurdle remains under consideration for Lossiemouth, with Mullins indicating options are being kept open.
Mares Hurdle
If Lossiemouth were to switch here, Mullins referenced her previous win over Woodoo at Aintree as a positive piece of form. However, he acknowledged that Woodoo could represent value depending on market dynamics.
Spindleberry was described as better than her latest Leopardstown effort suggests. Mullins felt the run may have been too bad to be true and is inclined to draw a line through it. The likely plan is a return to mares only company.
He also praised Dino Blue for her consistency and versatility, stating she sets the standard in her division.
Triumph Hurdle
Mullins was glowing in his assessment of Naraiso, describing him as a physically imposing juvenile who combines size with strength. He emphasised the importance of mental toughness in the Triumph, particularly on the New Course where stamina is stretched. He believes Naraiso has the temperament and cruising speed required to handle a strongly run race.
His experience riding the horse at Leopardstown reinforced that view, highlighting both his finishing effort and composure through the contest.
Supreme Novices’ Hurdle
Mullins was candid that Leader d’Allier disappointed at Christmas but felt his Punchestown victory showed significant improvement. He was particularly taken by the way the horse quickened through the line and suggested his French background gives him more experience than his hurdle record implies.
He also mentioned King Rasco Gray, noting he finished close to leading Irish two milers at Leopardstown while still not fully tuned. Mullins believes there is further improvement to come.
Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle
On Dr Steinberg, Mullins raised doubts about his suitability for the full Albert Bartlett trip. He questioned whether the horse would settle sufficiently over three miles on the New Course and suggested the Turners could prove a more suitable target.
He admitted that Paul Townend’s feedback will influence the final call, as the ability to relax early will determine whether Dr Steinberg conserves enough energy for the finish.
Ballyburn Placement Debate
Mullins acknowledged that Ballyburn did not fire at Christmas and appeared to regress from his Hatton’s Grace run. He remains convinced the engine is intact but admitted placing him is difficult. In his view, two and a half miles is likely Ballyburn’s optimal distance, giving him time to relax while still utilising his stamina.
El Fabiolo Bounce Back?
Discussing his Ascot fall, Mullins described it as a tired rather than heavy fall and confirmed there were no lasting effects. He acknowledged it was not an ideal preparation but pointed out that the Champion Chase is run at an unforgiving tempo. He would not dismiss the horse despite the setback.