Cheltenham weather update: forecast and conditions for the festival
Cheltenham Weather Update
“Just a little bit of selective watering today, it tightened up a little bit more yesterday than we anticipated – little bit of good ground out there first thing – so just a little bit of selective watering to keep the Good-to-Soft where it is and try and improve that good ground,” said Jon Pullin, reflecting on the current conditions at Cheltenham Racecourse.
The Cheltenham Festival, one of the sport’s biggest weeks of the year, runs from March 10 to March 13, 2026. As the festival progresses, the going is rated as Good to Soft, although it may become softer due to anticipated rain throughout the week.
On Gold Cup Day, expected to be March 13, the forecast predicts highs of 9°C and an overnight low of 5°C. Rain is expected to fall during the afternoon, accompanied by sunny spells, which could influence the race outcomes.
Currently, the going at Cheltenham is soft on the Old Course and Good to Soft on the New Course. The forecast suggests a generally wet week, with light rain expected from Monday to Friday, which may affect the track conditions.
Temperatures throughout the week are projected to range between 12 to 15 degrees Celsius, providing a mild atmosphere for both spectators and participants.
The Gold Cup, one of the most prestigious National Hunt races in the world, is run over a distance of 3 miles, 2 furlongs, and 70 yards. The total prize money for the Gold Cup is £625,000, with the winner receiving £363,999.
As the festival unfolds, Jon Pullin noted, “The hurdles are in their normal position throughout the season but not their normal Festival position,” indicating adjustments made for the event.
With the weather playing a crucial role in the festival’s dynamics, the forecast currently suggests a quicker track due to a dry spell just before and throughout the festival. However, details remain unconfirmed.
As the festival continues, updates on the weather and track conditions will be closely monitored to ensure the best possible experience for all involved.