We all want Arkle Chase tips, another two-mile race that is usually run at a furious gallop. It sees the top novice chasers collide in what is always a spectacle to watch.
It has a proud history of producing some fantastic winners who go onto repeat victories time and time again in bigger races afterwards including the likes of Edwardstone, Shishkin, Sprinter Sacre and Altior to name just a few.
There are thirteen fences to take in over the old course and the race usually takes a little under four minutes to complete.
In recent years, the UK and Irish based trained have tussled for the prize counterparts with the Irish regaining the winning habit following the success of Gaelic Warrior last season.
The race can provide the odd shock as the likes of Put The Kettle On (16/1) and Western Warhorse (33/1) have demonstrated in recent years.
Winning last time out seems to be a necessity for winning this as eighteen of the last twenty-two winners have done so and favourites have a good record in this having won eight of the last eleven renewals.
Nine of the last ten winners of this race all won on their previous start so that is a statistic to stay on the right side of.
Though, it should be mentioned that Gaelic Warrior actually unseated in his last race prior to winning the Arkle so it’s not a hard and fast rule.
The Irish Arkle has provided major clues as to what wins this in the past with no fewer than four winners coming from that race to take the spoils here including Un De Sceaux, Douvan, Footpad and the aforementioned El Fabiolo.
Last Year’s Winner of the Arkle Chase
This Grade 1 event, run over two miles on the old course, has a rich history of showcasing the best young chasers in the sport.
In 2024, the race was won by Gaelic Warrior, trained by the renowned Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend.
Gaelic Warrior’s impressive victory marked another successful outing for the Mullins-Townend partnership, which has dominated this race in recent years.
As the racing world turns its attention to the 2025 edition, all eyes are on Majborough, the current favourite, who is expected to continue Mullins’ winning streak.
Runners To Watch
This year’s Arkle Chase features a compact but highly competitive field of five horses, each with their own strengths and challenges.
Majborough
Majborough, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Mark Walsh, stands out as the strong favourite.
This five-year-old has already made a significant impact in the racing world, having led a 1-2 finish for Mullins in the Triumph Hurdle last season.
His impressive debut over fences at Fairyhouse and a commanding nine-length victory in the Irish Arkle have cemented his position as the horse to beat.
Despite being only five, Majborough has shown maturity beyond his years, and his ability to handle the pressure of being a short-priced favourite will be crucial.
L’Eau Du Sud
Another contender who could pose a significant challenge is L’Eau Du Sud, trained by Dan Skelton and ridden by Harry Skelton.
This seven-year-old has had an unbeaten season over fences, including a Grade 1 win at Sandown in the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase.
L’Eau Du Sud’s experience and jumping ability make him a formidable opponent, and he will need to deliver a career-best performance to rival Majborough.
His recent form has been impressive, and he is well-suited to the conditions expected at Cheltenham.
Jango Baie
Jango Baie, trained by Nicky Henderson and ridden by Nico de Boinville, is another strong contender.
Despite never finishing outside the top two in his eight-race career, Jango Baie faces a challenge by dropping down in distance to two miles.
His stamina and strong finishing ability should still see him in contention, especially if the pace is brisk.
Henderson’s experience in this race, having won it four times in the past 13 years, adds to Jango Baie’s credentials.
Touch Me Not
Touch Me Not, trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy, has shown promise but faces stiff competition.
Having finished second to both Majborough and L’Eau Du Sud in Grade 1 races, Touch Me Not could offer each-way value if the field were larger.
However, in a small field, his chances of securing a place may be limited.
Only By the Night
Lastly, Only By Night, trained by Gavin Cromwell and ridden by Keith Donoghue, completes the field.
Although she has shown good form, the quality of the opposition make her an outsider in this company.
2025 Arkle Chase Tips
The Arkle Chase is expected to be run at a good pace, with Majborough likely to take the lead early on.
L’Eau Du Sud and Jango Baie will need to press the favourite to prevent him from having an easy time at the front.
The good to soft ground anticipated for the race should suit all the top contenders, potentially enhancing their performances.
Majborough’s ability to lead from the front and maintain his speed over the distance will be crucial.
His recent performances suggest he has the stamina and class to handle the pressure of being the favourite.
L’Eau Du Sud’s jumping prowess will be vital if he is to challenge Majborough, as any mistakes could prove costly.
Jango Baie’s decision to drop in distance adds an element of uncertainty, but his trainer’s experience in this race is a significant factor.
In terms of tactics, the race is likely to unfold with Majborough setting the pace, followed closely by L’Eau Du Sud and Jango Baie.
TIP: Majborough to win the Arkle in 2025
Runners & Odds
*correct at time of publication
| Number | Name | Jockey | Trainer | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Majborough | M P Walsh | W P Mullins | 4/7 |
| 2 | L’eau Du Sud | Harry Skelton | D Skelton | 9/2 |
| 1 | Jango Baie | N de Boinville | N J Henderson | 7/1 |
| 5 | Only By Night | K M Donoghue | G P Cromwell | 11/1 |
| 4 | Touch Me Not | J W Kennedy | G Elliott | 16/1 |
Conclusion
As the Arkle Chase approaches, the focus is firmly on Majborough to continue Willie Mullins’ dominance in this event.
With his impressive form and the backing of a top trainer and jockey, he is well-positioned to take the top prize.
However, L’Eau Du Sud and Jango Baie are not to be underestimated, as they possess the quality and experience to challenge for the win.
The race promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair, with each horse having its own strengths and challenges.
Whether Majborough can live up to his billing as the favourite remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the 2025 Arkle Chase will be a thrilling spectacle for racing fans worldwide.
BETFRED
