Nicky Henderson

If any British trainer can mount a serious challenge on home soil at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival, it is Nicky Henderson. The Seven Barrows handler is the second most successful trainer in the Festival’s history, with 75 winners to his name heading into 2026.

Henderson has prepared some of the modern greats of the sport, including Sprinter Sacre, Buveur d’Air and Altior. His current squad is led by Gold Cup hopeful Jango Baie, who captured the Arkle Novices’ Chase in 2025. The yard also houses the ante post favourite for this season’s Arkle in Lulamba.

There is unfinished business for Jonbon, who is expected to line up in the Queen Mother Champion Chase as he seeks a first Festival success. Meanwhile, Old Park Star is a leading contender for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and could give Henderson a fast start to the week. Sir Gino will miss the meeting after suffering a serious injury on Trials Day, which was a major blow to the yard.

How many Cheltenham winners has Nicky Henderson trained?

As of the 2025 Festival, Henderson has saddled 75 winners at Cheltenham, a remarkable tally that stretches back to his first success in 1985. Those victories span multiple championship and novice events.

Cheltenham Gold Cup

The Cheltenham Gold Cup eluded Henderson for many years before Long Run delivered his first triumph in 2011. He struck again in 2013 with Bobs Worth, giving him two wins in jump racing’s most prestigious contest.

Champion Hurdle

The Champion Hurdle has been Henderson’s most fruitful race, producing nine winners. See You Then completed a famous hat trick between 1985 and 1987, while Buveur d’Air added back to back victories in 2017 and 2018.

Arkle Challenge Trophy

The Arkle Novices’ Chase has also been kind to Henderson, yielding eight winners. His most recent success came with Jango Baie in 2025, underlining his enduring ability to develop top class novice chasers.

Could Henderson add to his tally in 2026?

There are several strong candidates who could enhance Henderson’s record this year. Jonbon remains a major force in the two mile chase division. Jango Baie is expected to step up to the Gold Cup. Constitution Hill, despite recent setbacks, is still being aimed at the Champion Hurdle if all goes to plan.

Henderson has claimed the Leading Trainer award at Cheltenham three times. With strength across multiple divisions, he will again attempt to wrestle the crown back from Willie Mullins.