Find the best tips and picks for the Cheltenham Ryanair Chase from our experts. Discover winner and each-way predictions to add to your betslip.
Our racing experts have provided their Cheltenham betting tips for the Ryanair Chase. Simply add them to your betslip, or access real-time updates with the Betway app – available on the Play Store and the App Store.
Ryanair Chase tips and predictions
Fact To File returns to Prestbury Park in a bid to win his second Ryanair Chase and third Festival Grade one.
He faces eight rivals for the 2026 renewal, among them Jonbon, stablemate Impaire Et Passe and Banbridge, who has always looked at his best when the ground is quick and conditions are likely to suit him well.
Selection: Fact To File @ 4/6
Fact To File sets the standard in this year’s Ryanair Chase and looks the most likely winner, if reproducing his best form.
The Willie Mullins-trained nine-year-old was a dominant winner of this race last season, producing a spectacular performance to win by nine lengths and firmly establish himself among the top chasers.
Since then he has continued to compete at the highest level and arrives at Cheltenham in excellent form after landing the Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown in February, where he comfortably beat both Gaelic Warrior and Galopin Des Champs.
That performance confirmed his class and showed he is still improving, which makes him a worthy favourite to defend his Ryanair crown.
The intermediate distance of the Ryanair appears tailor-made for him, allowing him to use his cruising speed before applying pressure late on. Cheltenham clearly suits him, and his previous Festival form proves he can deliver on the biggest stage.
Next Best: Jonbon @ 13/2
Jonbon adds an intriguing dimension by running in the Ryanair for the first time.
The Nicky Henderson-trained 10-year-old has been one of the most consistent two-mile chasers and has built an impressive record, including multiple Grade 1 successes.
However, he has shown he can carry his class over further, being unbeaten over two and a half miles with three grade ones wins. His form figures at Cheltenham read particularly well despite facing criticism that he is not as good at the track, but he has always run his race here.
The key question is whether he will be good enough to beat Fact To File on the day. On pure class, he certainly has the talent to be competitive, and his strong travelling style could be a major asset if he settles early.
Nico de Boinville knows him well and is likely to ride him patiently to conserve energy. If Jonbon stays the trip strongly, he has the ability to put Fact To File under pressure and could easily play a major role in the finish.
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