The 2026 Cheltenham Festival kicks off with a competitive four-day meeting that has lost several star names to injury. While there will be fewer odds-on favourites, the remaining field offers value for punters willing to take bigger prices. The opening day features the Singer Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices' Chase as the first major head-to-head clash.

In the Arkle, Lulamba faces Kopek Des Bordes in a battle of contrasting preparations. Lulamba has won all three of his starts over fences, most recently impressing in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury, while Kopek Des Bordes, trained by Willie Mullins, returns after a mid-season setback with just one run over fences. Despite being the favourite, Kopek Des Bordes's price looks short compared to Lulamba's superior form and preparation.

The Trustmarque Ultima Handicap Chase sees Jonjo & AJ O'Neill's Johnnywho backed to continue British dominance in the race, which hasn't been won by an Irish-trained horse since 2006. The nine-year-old was narrowly beaten last year and has been targeted for this meeting since. In the Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy, Gordon Elliott's Brighterdaysahead is tipped despite the race losing several top contenders including State Man and Constitution Hill.