Cheltenham Festival 2026: Willie Mullins unhappy with ground as truth file withdrawn

“We were promised watering, and I’m not sure that’s been done, so I’m a little upset about that. I know the forecast hasn’t been good, but a few people are complaining about heavy rain.

“The conditions suit some horses, but for older candidates, we would like it to be softer.”

Mullins is the most successful trainer in Cheltenham’s history, having saddled 118 winners. Regarded as Ireland’s most prominent trainer, he has also trained recent Grand National winners.

The 69-year-old said he had concerns about the land since early Thursday, with his fears confirmed as the day continued.

Shortly before Fact To File was withdrawn, racing fans watched 40-1 shot White Noise win the Mares ‘Novices’ Hurdle and the Stayers’ Hurdle was captured by Home By The Lee, another victor at 33-1.

Mullins himself suffered directly at the hands of an outsider in the final race of the day, being beaten by a nose by the 22-1 lead Ask Brewster in the Kim Muir Challenge Cup for the Home Run.

Mullins added: “I spoke to JB [McManus, Fact To File’s owner]He said that acquiring these horses is very difficult.

“We waited all day for rain that was almost promising, so we made the decision not to run.”

Heavy rain was forecast in Cheltenham on Thursday morning, but although there was some wind and rain, it was less than expected and things were good for the Ryanair Chase.

Fact To File is the only horse Mullins pulled out on Thursday, with 15 other of his trainees running.

Five horses trained by Mullins won on the opening two days of the festival, but none on the third day.

Two horses died on the opening two days of the 2026 festival – Hansard on Tuesday, then HMS Seahorse on Wednesday.

The Ryanair Chase was eventually won by Heart Wood, who beat Jonbon – the new favorite after Fact Or File’s absence – by several lengths.

BBC Sport has contacted Cheltenham Racecourse for comment.