The Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle, one of the most competitive and thrilling races at the Cheltenham Festival, is set to take place on March 12th, 2025.
This prestigious event, run over a distance of 2 miles and 5 furlongs, has a rich history of producing unexpected winners, with only one favourite claiming victory in the past decade.
In 2024, Langer Dan, trained by Dan Skelton and ridden by Harry Skelton, made history by becoming the first horse to win the Coral Cup twice, showcasing the race’s unpredictability and the skill of its winners.
As we approach the 2025 renewal, the field is packed with talented contenders, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Runners To Watch
This year’s Coral Cup features 26 runners, each vying for the top prize of £61,897.
Bunting
Bunting, trained by Willie Mullins, is a promising contender in the race.
This five-year-old has shown significant potential with just seven career runs, five of which have been over hurdles.
Despite some inconsistent form, Bunting has demonstrated class and scope for improvement, particularly with his jumping ability and performance in softer conditions.
His current official rating of 139 suggests he could be competitively handicapped, making him an interesting prospect in a field as competitive as the Coral Cup.
Ballyadam
Among the leading contenders is Ballyadam, a ten-year-old trained by Henry De Bromhead.
Ballyadam has shown remarkable consistency, having finished second in the Coral Cup last year and demonstrating little decline in form.
His recent victory in the New Year’s Resolution Hurdle at Punchestown, where he outperformed two previous Coral Cup winners, Saint Sam and Sir Gerhard, highlights his potential for success at Cheltenham.
However, his age and extensive racing experience might raise concerns about his ability to maintain peak performance.
Jimmy Du Seuil
Another strong contender is Jimmy Du Seuil, trained by Willie Mullins.
This six-year-old has shown promise with a high official rating of 146 and a strong racing profile, making him a compelling choice for those looking for a younger, fresher competitor.
Be Aware
Be Aware, trained by Dan Skelton, is also in the mix, having demonstrated consistent form and a strong handicap record.
This aligns well with the trends favouring lightly-raced hurdlers with proven handicap form.
Coral Cup Tips
Ballyadam is my top pick for the 2025 Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle.
This ten-year-old, trained by Henry De Bromhead, has consistently shown his class, particularly in big-field handicaps.
His impressive second-place finish in last year’s Coral Cup demonstrated his ability to handle the Cheltenham Festival atmosphere and the demands of this race.
With a strong recent win at Punchestown, where he outperformed previous Coral Cup winners, Ballyadam has proven he still has the form and stamina to compete at the highest level.
His experience and proven track record make him a compelling choice to go one better this year.
Back him to win at a competitive price, as his consistency and past performances suggest he has what it takes to claim victory in this challenging handicap.
TIP: Ballyadam to win the Coral Cup 2025
Trends
The trends for the Coral Cup often favour horses with previous Cheltenham experience, those who have won over distances between 2m2f and 2m6f.
Runners from prominent stables like Nicky Henderson and Dan Skelton also tend to do well in the race.
Given these criteria, Impose Toi, trained by Nicky Henderson, and Be Aware are well-positioned. Additionally, Colonel Mustard and Eagle Fang could offer value for place bets, given their recent form and competitive ratings.
The Coral Cup is renowned for its unpredictable nature, with big-priced winners not uncommon.
In recent years, horses like Commander Of Fleet have won at odds of 50/1, illustrating the potential for outsiders to make a significant impact.
Therefore, while favourites like Ballyadam and Jimmy Du Seuil are strong contenders, it’s wise to consider the entire field for potential upsets.
Runners & Odds
*odds correct at time of publication
| Number | Name | Jockey | Trainer | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Bunting | P Townend | W P Mullins | 5/1 |
| 17 | Be Aware | Harry Skelton | D Skelton | 5/1 |
| 11 | Impose Toi | N de Boinville | N J Henderson | 8/1 |
| 15 | Comfort Zone | M P Walsh | J P O’Brien | 8/1 |
| 2 | Ballyadam | Rachael Blackmore | H De Bromhead | 12/1 |
| 6 | Jimmy Du Seuil | D E Mullins | W P Mullins | 12/1 |
| 24 | Beat The Bat | Bryan Carver | H Fry | 14/1 |
| 1 | Maxxum | C P Millar | G Elliott | 16/1 |
| 4 | Sandor Clegane | S F O’Keeffe | P Nolan | 16/1 |
| 9 | Al Gasparo | K M Donoghue | G P Cromwell | 16/1 |
| 25 | Jipcot | Kielan Woods | J & A O’Neill | 16/1 |
| 7 | Sa Fureur | J W Kennedy | G Elliott | 20/1 |
| 28 | Saint Anapolino | Reserve 2 | P Hobbs & J White | 20/1 |
| 5 | Colonel Mustard | Tiernan Power Roche | L Fowler | 22/1 |
| 12 | Beckett Rock | D J O’Keeffe | H De Bromhead | 22/1 |
| 3 | Eagle Fang | Oakley Brown | W Durkan | 25/1 |
| 23 | Vischio | D Meyler | E Mullins | 25/1 |
| 8 | Beacon Edge | D J Gilligan | G Elliott | 33/1 |
| 10 | Staffordshire Knot | Sam Ewing | G Elliott | 33/1 |
| 16 | Might I | S Bowen | H Fry | 33/1 |
| 18 | Samui | J C Gainford | G Elliott | 33/1 |
| 19 | Anna Bunina | H Cobden | J C McConnell | 33/1 |
| 20 | Lossiemouth | Stan Sheppard | P Gundry | 33/1 |
| 27 | Classic King | Reserve 1 | Miss E C Lavelle | 33/1 |
| 22 | Minella Missile | Adam Wedge | Evan Williams | 40/1 |
| 14 | King Alexander | B Hayes | W P Mullins | 50/1 |
| 21 | Captain Morgs | Sam Twiston-Davies | N J Henderson | 66/1 |
| 26 | Ike Sport | C O’Farrell | N P Mulholland | 66/1 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2025 Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle promises to be an exhilarating race, filled with talented runners and unpredictable outcomes.
While Ballyadam and Jimmy Du Seuil are among the top contenders, the race’s history suggests that any horse could emerge victorious.
As fans and punters alike prepare for the event, it’s crucial to consider both the favourites and the outsiders, as the Coral Cup often delivers surprises that make it one of the most captivating races at the Cheltenham Festival.
Whether you’re backing a seasoned veteran like Ballyadam or an emerging talent, the Coral Cup is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all involved.
BETFRED
