The early betting landscape for the 2027 Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival showcases potential strong competitors like the previous year's winner, Il Etait Temps, promising a thrilling spectacle. With Willie Mullins' dominance and the anticipated return of stars like Marine Nationale, race fans can expect excitement. The race may see participation from names like Kopek Des Bordes, Majborough, and others with impressive track records, enhancing the eagerly awaited competition. As the event approaches, the contenders' performance and odds will be a keen area of interest for enthusiasts.
This Grade One will take place at 4:00pm on Wednesday, March 17th
Defending champion Il Etait Temps is the 9/2 favourite
Jockey Paul Townend rides racehorse Il Etait Temps to win the Queen Mother Champion Chase. (Getty)
Here is the early betting for the 2027 Champion Chase, and a look at the runners who could contest the feature race at next year's Cheltenham Festival.
After Majborough fluffed his lines around Cheltenham again, Il Etait Temps capitalised under Paul Townend to hand Willie Mullins yet another Champion Chase.
The 2026 winner leads the way in the betting, and sits ahead of stablemate Kopek Des Bordes, who was beaten narrowly by Kargese in the 2026 Arkle. Willie Mullins mare can be backed at 10/1 for next season's Champion Chase, with Majborough available at a single-figure price.
Injury stopped Marine Nationale from defending his crown, but Barry Connell's two-time Cheltenham Festival winner could return in 2027. L'Eau Du Sud could run again after his third-place finish this year. Lulamba can be backed at 25/1, but seems more likely to head down the Ryanair Chase route.
Romeo Coolio is a possible runner, if connections don't think he'll see out the Gold Cup trip. Other names in the betting include 2026 runner-up Libberty Hunter, handicap winner Jacob's Ladder, Grade One scorer Solness, and Willie Mullins' Salvator Mundi.
Paul Townend after riding Il Etait Temps (yellow) to victory in the Champion Chase. (Getty)
Champion Chase 2027 FAQs
When is the 2027 Champion Chase?
The Champion Chase is the Championship race on day two of the Cheltenham Festival. The 2027 Champion Chase will be run at 4:00pm on Wednesday, March 17th, 2027.
Who won the Champion Chase?
After odds-on favourite Majborough faded, Willie Mullins' Il Etait Temps swooped to claim a commanding victory in the 2026 Champion Chase.
Cheltenham Festival 2027 dates?
In 2027, the Cheltenham Festival will start on Tuesday, March 16th and end on Friday, March 19th.
