Queen Mother Champion Chase Tips For 2025 – Will Jonbon Reign Supreme?
The centre piece event of the second day stands as the pinnacle of the 2-mile chase category for the season.
Success in the Queen Mother Champion Chase hinges on smooth, swift jumping at pace.
Since Badsworth Boy’s remarkable triple victory from 1983 to 1985, eight other horses have claimed the title twice, with the 2023 champion, Energumene, among them.
Nicky Henderson and Paul Nicholls boast six victories each in this prestigious race, placing them on par with Tom Dreaper as the most accomplished trainers in the Grade 1’s storied history.
Thirteen instances of consecutive victories have been recorded in this event since 1959, with seven occurring within the last 38 years.
Notably, Energumene, Altior, and Master Minded achieved this feat in the past 26 years.
However, beyond these esteemed champions, the last 14 attempts to defend their crown have fallen short.
Runners To Watch
Last year’s edition saw a thrilling upset when Captain Guinness, trained by Henry De Bromhead and ridden by Rachael Blackmore, claimed victory at odds of 17-2.
The nine-year-old gelding capitalised on a mistake by the favourite, El Fabiolo, to secure his first Grade One win.
This year, Captain Guinness returns, but his form has been underwhelming, making him a long shot for a repeat victory.
Jonbon
As the 2025 Champion Chase approaches, all eyes are on Jonbon, trained by Nicky Henderson.
Jonbon has been in exceptional form this season, winning key races like the Clarence House Chase and the Tingle Creek Chase.
His ability to dominate over two miles has been impressive, and he is widely regarded as the one to beat.
Despite having never won at Cheltenham, Jonbon’s recent performances suggest he is ready to break his Festival duck.
His experience and skill make him a strong contender for the top spot.
Energumene
Another notable runner is Energumene, a dual Champion Chase winner trained by Willie Mullins.
Although Energumene was beaten by Jonbon in the Clarence House Chase, he remains a formidable opponent, having twice won this race.
His experience and past success at Cheltenham make him a serious challenger.
Marine Nationale
Marine Nationale, the 2023 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner, is another contender who could cause an upset.
His recent form has been improving, and he might surprise if he peaks at the right time.
Found A Fifty
Found A Fifty, trained by Gordon Elliott, is another high-class chaser in the mix.
Despite a recent setback, he has shown impressive form in the past, winning multiple Grade One races.
However, his performance will depend on how well he recovers from his last outing.
Solness
Solness, trained by Joseph Patrick O’Brien, has also shown promise, particularly with his victory at Leopardstown, but he faces stiff competition in this field.
The Rest
Libberty Hunter and Quilixios complete the lineup, though they are considered outsiders.
Libberty Hunter has opted for the Champion Chase over the Grand Annual, indicating his trainer’s confidence in his ability to compete at this level.
Quilixios, also trained by Henry De Bromhead, has shown flashes of brilliance but needs to improve significantly to challenge the favourites.
Queen Mother Champion Chase Tips For 2025
For the 2025 Queen Mother Champion Chase, I’m backing Jonbon to finally break his Cheltenham duck.
Nicky Henderson’s star has been in scintillating form this season, impressively winning the Clarence House and Tingle Creek Chases.
His ability to dominate over two miles is unmatched, and he looks primed to take on the best of the best at Cheltenham.
Despite never having won at the Festival, Jonbon’s recent performances suggest he’s ready to put that right.
With his speed and agility, he’s well-suited to the demands of this race, and I believe he’s the one to beat.
TIP: Jonbon to Dominate the Champion Chase in 2025
Trends
In terms of statistics, the Champion Chase often favours horses aged between 7 and 9 years old.
This trend supports Jonbon’s chances, as he fits perfectly into this age bracket.
Additionally, course form is crucial, and while Jonbon has not won at Cheltenham, his recent performances suggest he is well-suited to the track.
As the race approaches, the betting odds reflect Jonbon’s status as the clear favourite.
His consistency and dominance over the two-mile distance make him the most likely winner.
However, the Champion Chase is known for its unpredictability, and any of the top contenders could pull off a surprise if conditions favour them.
Ultimately, the combination of Jonbon’s form and experience makes him the horse to beat, but the presence of Energumene and Marine Nationale ensures that the race will be highly competitive.
Runners & Odds
*odds correct at time of publication
| Number | Name | Jockey | Trainer | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Jonbon | N de Boinville | N J Henderson | 5/6 |
| 6 | Marine Nationale | S W Flanagan | B Connell | 5/1 |
| 2 | Energumene | P Townend | W P Mullins | 7/1 |
| 8 | Solness | J J Slevin | J P O’Brien | 15/2 |
| 3 | Found A Fifty | J W Kennedy | G Elliott | 12/1 |
| 7 | Quilixios | D J O’Keeffe | H De Bromhead | 22/1 |
| 1 | Captain Guinness | Rachael Blackmore | H De Bromhead | 25/1 |
| 5 | Libberty Hunter | Adam Wedge | Evan Williams | 28/1 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2025 Queen Mother Champion Chase promises to be an exciting event, with Jonbon poised to finally achieve victory at the Cheltenham Festival.
While other contenders like Energumene and Marine Nationale could challenge for the top spots, Jonbon’s recent performances make him the standout choice.
The race will undoubtedly be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the best of two-mile chasing talent.
As fans and punters alike await the outcome, one thing is certain: the Queen Mother Champion Chase will once again deliver a memorable moment in the world of horse racing.
BETFRED
