Constitution Hill remains one of the most captivating and debated horses heading into the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. Trainer Nicky Henderson’s plans keep the racing world eager for updates, as questions over the horse’s form and reliability continue to dominate discussion.
For this season, Henderson has made it clear that the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham is still the main target. Yet after recent setbacks and some uncharacteristic mistakes, expectations have been tempered and narratives reshaped among fans and pundits alike.
Henderson’s 2026 Plan of Action
Nicky Henderson has not wavered from his belief that Constitution Hill belongs in the Champion Hurdle. Despite a tough spell of falls and below-par performances in spring campaigns, he has insisted the horse can return to his best.
The stable has gone back to basics, with a focus on Constitution Hill’s famed slick jumping and confidence over hurdles. At nine years old and still relatively lightly raced, there is optimism that this approach can rekindle the spark.
Preparatory runs in graded hurdles are on the agenda before March, though Henderson has been cautious about over-racing, mindful of the physical and mental toll recent campaigns have taken.
Where the Problems Began
The heart of the issue lies in Constitution Hill’s sudden vulnerability over hurdles. For a horse once seen as flawless, two falls in succession—one at Cheltenham and another at Aintree—came as a genuine shock.
These mistakes, combined with bouts of lameness and fitness concerns at the back end of 2024, created doubts about his ability to dominate at the highest level. Henderson has spoken about changes in the horse’s jumping pattern, with a tendency to “step at hurdles” rather than attacking them with his old precision.
That mental glitch, possibly linked to nerves after injury, has become the primary focus. The task now is as much about rebuilding Constitution Hill’s confidence as it is about his physical conditioning.
What Cheltenham 2026 Could Look Like
The Champion Hurdle in 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most open in recent years. While Constitution Hill remains a contender, his ante-post odds reflect the doubts surrounding his current form.
Rivals like Lossiemouth and The New Lion are emerging as serious threats, and bookmakers are no longer treating Henderson’s star as an untouchable favourite. Seasoned punters advise caution, pointing to the repeated setbacks that have carried over into the new campaign.
Still, if Henderson’s faith pays off, Constitution Hill could yet remind us why he was once considered the most exciting hurdler of his generation.
Rising Rivals in the Champion Hurdle
Lossiemouth and The New Lion are now considered major contenders for the 2026 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, adding depth and intrigue to the Festival alongside Constitution Hill.
Both have firmly established themselves as elite prospects after standout performances last season, and their profiles continue to rise heading into the new campaign.
Lossiemouth’s Champion Hurdle Bid
Trained by Willie Mullins, Lossiemouth is stepping up from her dual Mares’ Hurdle victories to target the Champion Hurdle outright.
Her recent Aintree win confirmed she belongs with the very best two-milers, and connections are confident she can transfer her dominance into open company. With a proven Cheltenham record and the versatility to adapt to any conditions, Lossiemouth is rated as one of the most credible threats to Constitution Hill’s crown.
The New Lion’s Rapid Rise
The New Lion, trained by Gordon Elliott, is the leading novice star stepping into the senior division. After winning top novice events and producing a standout performance at Cheltenham, bookmakers have installed him as a genuine Champion Hurdle contender.
His blend of speed, class, and toughness has convinced many that he is capable of pushing past even the established names.
Lossiemouth and The New Lion are expected to play central roles in shaping the 2026 Champion Hurdle. Their presence means Constitution Hill must rediscover his very best if he is to remain at the top.
The Big Storylines to Follow
- Henderson’s faith: The trainer’s belief in a back-to-fundamentals approach, rather than sweeping changes, will be central to the horse’s preparation.
- Mental fragility vs. natural brilliance: Constitution Hill has the raw talent, but the question is whether he can overcome the scars of past falls.
- Shifting expectations: Among both fans and bookmakers, the mood has shifted from certainty to curiosity. Can he still deliver at Cheltenham, or is his aura of dominance gone?
Final Thoughts
Constitution Hill’s journey to the 2026 Cheltenham Festival is as intriguing as it is uncertain. The Champion Hurdle remains the goal, but his success will be judged not just on results, but on whether Henderson and his team can restore the horse’s trademark confidence and composure.
For now, the Festival narrative is clear: Constitution Hill is no longer the invincible favourite, but he is still one of the most fascinating horses in training. If he can put his problems behind him, Cheltenham could yet witness a remarkable comeback.
