The New Lion 7/1 to win 2026 Champion Hurdle after Turner Novices' Hurdle glory

Dan Skelton hailed The New Lion as "the best he's ever had" after his unbeaten star landed the Turner Novices' Hurdle at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival.

A superb ride from Harry Skelton saw The New Lion charge past Final Demand and The Yellow Clay down the final straight to emerge victorious in impressive fashion.

The New Lion also broke racing’s “Challow Curse” in the process – he’s the first winner of Newbury’s Challow Hurdle to follow up with a festival win in the same season since Wichita Lineman accomplished the feat all the way back in 2007.

Speaking after the race, trainer Skelton said: "He's a very special horse. I trusted him all the way round and I knew he would win. I'm very, very proud of this horse."

Quizzed on where The New Lion ranks amongst horses he's trained, Skelton said: "I haven't had one who can do things like this one (The New Lion). His simplicity is his greatest asset."

Following his successful quest in the Turners Novices' Hurdle, The New Lion has been priced at 7/1 to win the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham next year.

Turners Novices' Hurdle result

1. The New Lion
2. The Yellow Clay
3. Final Demand

The New Lion - 2026 Champion Hurdle odds

(Odds will display when market is available)

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