The Cheltenham Festival, the pinnacle of jump racing, is set to undergo significant changes, including modifications to five of its 28 races and relaxed drinking restrictions along the course. Following an extensive review, these updates will be in effect for the first fixture of the new season, commencing October 25.
Organised by The Jockey Club, the alterations aim to create "more competitive racing and an improved experience for all visitors" to this iconic event.
Race Program Changes
For the 2025 Cheltenham Festival, scheduled from March 11 to March 14, six key changes have been introduced to the race program. The Turners Novices’ Chase will be replaced with a Grade Two Limited Novice Handicap Chase over two-and-a-half miles. Additionally, the National Hunt Chase will now feature as a Novice Handicap Chase for horses rated 0-145, eliminating amateur rider restrictions to allow professional jockey participation.
The Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase will revert to handicap status after previously being a conditions race since 2016. The Ryanair Mares’ Novices Hurdle will no longer have a penalty structure, and the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle will guarantee a spot for all winners of series qualifiers within the weight bracket. Finally, the number of qualifying runs for non-novice handicaps has increased to four for chases and five for hurdles.
Overall prize money for the festival has been raised by £115,000, bringing the total to £4.93 million in 2025.
Mixed Reactions from Key Figures
Ruby Walsh, the Festival's most successful jockey with 59 winners, was consulted about these changes and anticipates mixed feedback. He stated, "The changes aim to make races more competitive and attract the best horses. Cheltenham is the pinnacle of jump racing, and these adjustments support that goal." He noted that while some may view the changes as too drastic or not sufficient, they are made with the best interests of jump racing in mind.
Paul Nicholls, Britain’s 14-time champion trainer, echoed Walsh’s sentiments, praising Cheltenham’s adaptability. "These changes are sensible. Everyone has different opinions, but making racing as competitive as possible is crucial. Cheltenham is committed to assessing the effects of these changes and considering future adjustments," he said.
Enhanced Festival Experience
The Jockey Club’s review also focused on improving the overall Festival experience for attendees. Course-side drinking restrictions will be partially lifted in the Tattersalls and Best Mate enclosures, aiming to reduce queues and enhance seating options. New meal deals will also be available.
Following criticism of muddy conditions in the car park last year, The Jockey Club is adding a hard-standing ‘trackway’ covering an area equivalent to 17 football pitches. A new park-and-ride system will be introduced for easier access, and National Express coaches will double the service from 20 pick-up locations.
Ticket Pricing and Discounts
In light of a decline in attendance in 2024, next year’s ticket prices will remain frozen at 2024 levels. Racegoers purchasing tickets for any day will receive a 20% discount on tickets for additional days, excluding Gold Cup day. Additionally, groups of six can save 10% when booking together.
Ian Renton, managing director of Cheltenham Racecourse, emphasised the importance of listening to racegoers. "While not every change will please everyone, we aim to enhance the Festival experience and exceed expectations," he stated.