Gordon Elliott has announced that he will wait until the last minute to determine the best race for his Grade One winner, Romeo Coolio, at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival in 2026. The decision will be between the prestigious Arkle Trophy and the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase, with Elliott considering which event would suit his horse's current form best. Romeo Coolio, a seven-year-old gelding, has had a strong season, finishing third in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle last March and maintaining an unbeaten record in his subsequent chases, including a notable victory at Leopardstown.

The horse's recent performances indicate that he has been pushed to his limits in shorter races, raising the prospect that a longer distance might be more advantageous. Elliott's assessment of Romeo Coolio's capabilities comes after a tense victory in the Irish Arkle, where the horse narrowly defeated Kargese, suggesting that he is well-suited for a challenge over a trip of 3m1f, which would be required in the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase. Elliott's strategy in deciding the final race illustrates the careful planning and consideration that goes into preparing a horse for such high-stakes competitions.

With the Cheltenham Festival looming on the horizon, Elliott's decision will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike, reflecting the high stakes associated with each race. This situation not only highlights the excitement surrounding the Festival but also the unpredictable nature of horse racing, where last-minute decisions can significantly alter the outcomes. Ultimately, Romeo Coolio's target at Cheltenham will be a pivotal factor in both the horse's career trajectory and Elliott's training strategy for the event.