What is the Cheltenham Gold Cup?
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the blue riband of jump racing, the race every owner,
trainer and jockey wants to win above all others. Run on the final day of the
Cheltenham Festival, it brings together the best staying chasers in Britain and
Ireland over roughly three and a quarter miles, finishing up Cheltenham's famous
uphill run-in. To win the Gold Cup is to be crowned champion of the season.
The race
Unlike the Grand National, the Gold Cup is not a handicap. It is a weight-for-age
conditions race, so the field carries set weights and the result is a genuine
contest of the best against the best. The Cheltenham hill, the stiff climb to the
line, is the great leveller: it rewards stamina and class, and has broken many a
challenge that looked to be travelling well three from home.
A race steeped in history
The Gold Cup's roll of honour reads like a history of jump racing. Golden Miller
won it five times in the 1930s; Arkle, widely regarded as the greatest chaser of
all, dominated in the 1960s; Best Mate took three in a row in the 2000s; and Kauto
Star produced one of the sport's most celebrated comebacks to regain his crown.
Each renewal adds to that story.
Cheltenham Gold Cup betting
Ante-post markets for the Gold Cup open months in advance, often firming up after
the major mid-season trials. Punters weigh up proven form at Cheltenham, stamina
for the trip, and the strength of the leading Irish and British yards. For a full
breakdown of the field, see our runners and tips coverage in the build-up to the
race, and our Cheltenham Festival hub for the rest
of the week.
More Cheltenham Gold Cup coverage
The Gold Cup is one of the highlights of the jumps betting calendar, with ante-post markets open months ahead of the race. Every operator below is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Always check the bookmaker's site for current odds and terms.
We only point you to a bookmaker once our tracked, UK Gambling Commission licensed
links are live. For now, take the best price you can find at any licensed operator, and
see our guide to Best Odds Guaranteed.
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When is the 2027 Cheltenham Gold Cup?
The 2027 Cheltenham Gold Cup is run on the final day of the Cheltenham Festival, Gold Cup Day, in March 2027. The exact date is confirmed by Cheltenham Racecourse with the fixture list.
How far is the Cheltenham Gold Cup?
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is run over approximately 3 miles 2½ furlongs, with 22 fences, up the demanding Cheltenham hill to the finish.
Is the Gold Cup a handicap?
No. Unlike the Grand National, the Gold Cup is a weight-for-age conditions race, horses carry set weights according to age and sex rather than a handicap mark, so it is a true test of the best against the best.
Which horses have won the most Cheltenham Gold Cups?
Golden Miller holds the record with five wins in the 1930s. Modern greats include Best Mate, who won three in a row in the 2000s, and Arkle and Kauto Star, who are among the most celebrated winners in the race's history.
How can I watch the Cheltenham Gold Cup?
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is broadcast on UK television as part of Gold Cup Day coverage, and major bookmakers stream the race to eligible account holders.