Langer Dan confirmed as a non-runner in the Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham

Two-time Coral Cup winner Langer Dan has been confirmed as a non-runner in the Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham on Thursday.

The popular nine-year-old featured in the most popular bets for the Stayers' Hurdle, with many punters believing that he saves his best form for Cheltenham.

He has been underwhelming to say the least this season but his back-to-back victories in the Coral Cup have made him one of the most popular National Hunt horses currently competing.

Langer Dan will miss out on an appearance in Thursday's Championship race due to an untimely respiratory infection.

Trainer Dan Skelton provided an update on X: "Langer Dan has a slightly dirty nose and our vet has had a look at it. He had a trachea wash this morning, which tests his airwaves, and there was a bit of mucus in there.

"It's very disappointing to miss the race. He's turned up every year at the festival since the age of four and I'm gutted for Colm [Donlon], who owns him.

"It's bad timing and shouldn't take long to clear up so hopefully he will go to Aintree next month. Unfortunately these things happen with horses."

Elsewhere, outsider Monmiral has also been confirmed as a non-runner for the Stayers' Hurdle, with last year's winner Teahupoo remaining the favourite to win the race.

For all information such as guides, horses and odds, be sure to explore our dedicated hubs where you can also bet on Cheltenham on every race and bet on the Gold Cup. Maximise your potential winnings with our Cheltenham Super Boosts and other Cheltenham Betting Offers.  For expert analysis and predictions on every race, visit our Cheltenham Festival Tips page.

Matt Gibbs

• Cheltenham Racecourse
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