Cheltenham Festival Day 3: Fact To File Aims for Ryanair Chase Defence
The 2026 Cheltenham Festival continues with an exciting lineup of races on St. Patrick's Thursday, featuring several high-profile contenders and defending champions. The spotlight shines brightly on the Ryanair Chase as the heavily favored Fact To File returns to defend the title won decisively last year.
Fact To File's Strategic Decision
Trained by Willie Mullins, Fact To File secured the Irish Gold Cup earlier this year and was considered a potential Gold Cup runner at this week's festival. However, connections have opted for a different strategy, choosing instead to contest Thursday's feature race once again. This decision sets up a compelling narrative as the horse seeks to replicate last year's convincing victory.
Key Races and Contenders
Before the Ryanair Chase, attention turns to the Stayers' Hurdle where Bob Ollinger aims to defend the title won with jockey Rachael Blackmore last year. He faces formidable competition from Kabral Du Mathan, Teahupoo, and Ballyburn in what promises to be a highly competitive race.
The day's opener, The Ryanair Mares' Novices' Hurdle, generates significant excitement with the return of Bambino Fever. This contender returns to the festival after winning the Weatherbys Champion Bumper in 2025, adding another layer of anticipation to the day's proceedings.
Complete Day 3 Race Schedule
- 1.20 – The Ryanair Mares' Novices' Hurdle
- 2.00 – The Jack Richards Novices' Limited Handicap Chase
- 2.40 – The Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle
- 3.20 – The Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle
- 4.00 – The Ryanair Chase
- 4.40 – The Pertemps Network Final
- 5.20 – The Rosconn Group Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Steeple Chase
How to Watch the Action
Television coverage of today's Cheltenham Festival action begins at 12:45pm on ITV1 and ITVX, providing comprehensive live coverage of the day's races. Racing TV will broadcast the final two races of the day, ensuring complete viewing access for racing enthusiasts.
The festival atmosphere builds throughout St. Patrick's Thursday with multiple storylines unfolding across seven competitive races. From defending champions to rising stars, Day 3 offers a compelling mix of established talent and emerging contenders in one of jump racing's premier events.
