The Champion Chase picture – can Marine Nationale go back-to-back for Barry Connell?

It is quite the story that at this moment in time, there isn’t one odds-on favourite on the ante-post markets for any race at the Cheltenham Festival 2026 and we are now going to delve into the Champion Chase picture as things stand! What horse is most likely to come out on top and what horse represents the best value right now?

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Marine Nationale – back or lay?

I certainly wouldn’t like to lay him, I’ll tell you that! I had Solness tipped on the Racing Post simply because he goes well fresh and was a dual C&D winner in Grade 1 company last season, but there’s no denying that Marine Nationale was desperately unlucky. He lost many many lengths after a shuddering mistake at the second fence, and he still challenged the winner all the way up the run-in. He should win this!

What is Willie’s best chance?

Although he’s extremely talented, I am no big fan of Majborough. He is a punter’s nightmare as you just don’t know what he’s going to do. With a clear round, he has every chance, but his jumping needs to improve ten-fold to have a chance. Il Etait Temps has progressed at a rate of knots and he’s the most likely challenger to Marine Nationale.

Could the British have a say here?

In short, I don’t think so. L’Eau du Sud came up short in last season’s Arkle and was beaten out of sight behind Il Etait Temps and Jonbon at Sandown when last seen. I am actually surprised Jonbon is a bigger price than him at 25/1 and he rates as a better bet.

Verdict

The 11/4 about Marine Nationale is a very fair price. He’s the best horse in the race when all are at their best and he should be primed for this one.

£40 in Free Bets When You Place A £1 Bet

New customers only. First single & E/W bet only. Odds of 1/1 or greater. 4 X £10 bet tokens. Free bet stakes not included in returns. Free bets exclude virtuals. Free bets are non withdrawable. Free bets expire after 30 days. Eligibility restrictions and further T&Cs apply.

CLAIM

£40 in Free Bets When You Place A £1 Bet

New customers only. First single & E/W bet only. Odds of 1/1 or greater. 4 X £10 bet tokens. Free bet stakes not included in returns. Free bets exclude virtuals. Free bets are non withdrawable. Free bets expire after 30 days. Eligibility restrictions and further T&Cs apply. #ad