Cheltenham Weather Update
“Just a little bit of selective watering today, it tightened up a little bit more yesterday than we anticipated – little bit of good ground out there first thing – so just a little bit of selective watering to keep the Good-to-Soft where it is and try and improve that good ground,” said Jon Pullin, reflecting on the current conditions at Cheltenham Racecourse.
The Cheltenham Festival, one of the sport’s biggest weeks of the year, is scheduled from March 10 to March 13, 2026. As the event approaches, the going is rated as Good to Soft, although it may become softer due to anticipated rain throughout the week.
On Gold Cup Day, March 13, the forecast predicts highs of 9°C and an overnight low of 5°C. Rain is expected during the afternoon, accompanied by sunny spells, which could affect the track conditions.
Currently, the going at Cheltenham is soft on the Old Course and Good to Soft on the New Course. The forecast suggests a generally wet week, with light rain expected from Monday to Friday, potentially impacting the racing conditions.
Temperatures throughout the week are expected to range from 12 to 15 degrees Celsius, providing a mild atmosphere for attendees. The final race of the day on Gold Cup Day is scheduled for 5:20 p.m. GMT.
The Gold Cup itself is a prestigious National Hunt race, run over a distance of 3 miles, 2 furlongs, and 70 yards, with a total prize money of £625,000. The winner will receive £363,999, making it a highly anticipated event for both competitors and spectators.
Harry Redknapp, a notable figure in the racing community, remarked, “It’s a dream to have a horse run in the Gold Cup and go there with a chance,” highlighting the significance of this race in the horse racing calendar.
As preparations continue, Pullin noted, “The hurdles are in their normal position throughout the season but not their normal Festival position,” indicating adjustments made for the event.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact impact of the weather on the racing conditions, but the forecast will be closely monitored as the Festival approaches.
With the combination of weather challenges and the excitement surrounding the Gold Cup, the Cheltenham Festival promises to be an event filled with anticipation and competitive spirit.
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