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Gordon Elliott has cemented his place among the greats of the Cheltenham Festival, with standout victories from Tiger Roll’s historic wins to Don Cossack’s Gold Cup triumph. The County Meath trainer has a proven track record of preparing horses for success and is frequently a favourite amongst the free bets markets for his ability to conjure up magic.
The master of Cullentra House, whose remarkable journey includes Leading Trainer honours in 2017 and 2018, brings another formidable team to Prestbury Park in 2025, though this season has presented a mixed bag of fortunes for the decorated handler.
While this season might not have delivered the quantity of winners he’d hoped for, the quality of his potential Festival team suggests another successful March campaign could be on the horizon. Here are some of his leading lights for Cheltenham 2025.
Kalypso’chance – Champion Bumper
Currently heading the market for the Champion Bumper, this exciting prospect has shown all the hallmarks of a top-class performer in waiting. His emphatic victory at Punchestown in November, followed by success at Navan, marked him as a standard-bearer for the division.
Even with Willie Mullins’ renowned strength in this category, Kalypso’chance has shown enough to suggest he could provide Elliott with another Champion Bumper triumph to add to his previous successes.
Brighterdaysahead – Champion Hurdle/Mares’ Hurdle
Elliott’s superstar mare has elevated herself to rarefied air this season. Her 30-length demolition of Champion Hurdle hero State Man at Leopardstown served notice that she belongs in the highest echelon of hurdlers.
While the choice between the Champion Hurdle and Mares’ Hurdle remains undecided, her stunning progression makes her a leading contender for either race.
The manner of her recent victories, combining raw power with graceful efficiency, suggests we’re witnessing the emergence of a truly special talent. Whether facing the geldings or her own sex, Brighterdaysahead carries the potential to provide Elliott with another memorable Festival moment.
Teahupoo – Stayers’ Hurdle
The defending Stayers’ Hurdle champion heads Elliott’s Festival prospects. In a division crying out for a dominant force, Teahupoo appears perfectly positioned to cement his legacy at odds of 5/6.
His gutsy victory in last year’s renewal showcased both his abundant talent and fierce determination, traits that have only strengthened this season.
With main rival and stablemate Irish Point sidelined, Teahupoo’s path to successive Stayers’ crowns looks increasingly clear. His trademark blend of stamina and class makes him the standout in a division lacking depth, and anything less than victory would constitute a significant upset.
Wingmen – Festival Handicaps
While Elliott’s Grade 1 contenders naturally draw the spotlight, his expertise in targeting Festival handicaps shouldn’t be underestimated. Wingmen, following a similar profile to last year’s Martin Pipe winner Better Days Ahead, represents a prime example of Elliott’s shrewd placement.
Though his exact Festival target remains undecided, his progressive profile and careful campaign suggest he’s being primed for a significant handicap challenge.
Veteran runners
Complementing these rising stars, Elliott’s veteran campaigners add considerable depth to his Festival squad. Having horses like Conflated, whose previous Festival exploits include a gallant third in the 2023 Gold Cup, demonstrates the enviable depth of Elliott’s stable.
With this blend of emerging talent and seasoned campaigners, Elliott appears well-equipped to add to his impressive Cheltenham record.
