Cheltenham Festival 2026 Opens With Old Park Star Win and Ladies Day Return

In Brief

The 2026 Cheltenham Festival began Tuesday, featuring Old Park Star's win and the return of Ladies Day.

Key Facts

• The 2026 Cheltenham Festival began on Tuesday and runs for four days.
• This year's festival is described as more unpredictable due to fewer clear favourites.
• Old Park Star won the first race of the 2026 festival on Tuesday.
• The event includes the Champion Hurdle as a highlight.
• Ladies Day returned to the festival after a five-year hiatus.

What Happened

The Cheltenham Festival 2026 started on Tuesday, featuring four days of jump racing. Old Park Star secured victory in the opening race, and Ladies Day returned after a five-year break.

Why It Matters

The festival is a major event in jump racing, drawing significant public and media attention. The return of Ladies Day and a more unpredictable field may impact audience engagement and the sport's broader appeal.

What's Next

Races will continue through the festival's four days, with the Champion Hurdle among the key events. Spectators can follow the action online and on TV after ITV coverage ends.