The 2026 Cheltenham Festival has officially started, bringing together horse racing enthusiasts for four days of elite competition at Prestbury Park. Starting on March 10, the festival features a total of 28 races, culminating in the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup on Friday. This annual event is a significant highlight in the National Hunt racing calendar, attracting not only local fans but also an international audience eager to watch the races live.

ITV Racing is set to deliver comprehensive live coverage of the races starting each day at 12:45 pm, showcasing the first six races of each card. The coverage is being led by Ed Chamberlin, who has been recognized as the Sports Broadcaster of the Year, indicating the quality and expertise viewers can expect throughout the festival. Chamberlin's experience and professionalism are complemented by a team of expert commentators, heightening the anticipation for this celebrated sporting event.

Among the key figures in the commentary line-up is Sir Anthony McCoy, celebrated as a legendary figure in horse racing with a remarkable 20 Champion Jockey titles and over 4,000 winners in his career. His insights and analysis are invaluable for both seasoned punters and those new to the sport, providing a deeper understanding of the performances and strategies at play during the festival. As ITV Racing brings this excitement to viewers at home, the festival continues its longstanding tradition of showcasing the best in National Hunt racing.