Cheltenham Festival: Preview, Free Bets, and Key Details

The Cheltenham Festival is an annual highlight in the horse racing calendar, drawing significant attention from both seasoned bettors and casual fans. Set against the backdrop of the Cotswolds, the festival is known for its competitive races and vibrant atmosphere.

Going Conditions and Weather Forecast

The Cheltenham Festival is expected to commence on ground rated as good to soft. According to clerk of the course Jon Pullin, recent weather patterns have influenced the track conditions. A light drizzle was recorded, contributing to the going. The Old course, used for the initial two days, is good to soft, while the New course is good to soft, with soft patches in places. The cross-country course presents a mix, predominantly good to soft with areas of good and soft ground.

Pullin mentioned that the track was watered towards the end of the previous week due to warmer temperatures. Looking ahead, cooler conditions are expected, with potential overnight frost and sleet. Daytime temperatures are anticipated to be around 7-8C, with possible wintery showers.

Key Races and Contenders

The festival features several high-profile races. The Gold Cup is a major attraction, with Galopin des Champs aiming for another victory. Champion Day marks the start of the festival, featuring races like the Champion Hurdle. Trainer Willie Mullins has strategically positioned Lossiemouth in the Mares’ Hurdle.

Champion Day Races

• Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle: Kopek Des Bordes is favored, with Romeo Coolio as a strong contender.
• My Pension Expert Arkle Novices’ Chase: Majborough is highly favored.
• Ultima Handicap Chase: Broadway Boy is a notable contender with course experience.
• Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle: Lossiemouth aims to defend her title, with Joyeuse as an alternative pick.
• Unibet Champion Hurdle: Constitution Hill is the favorite, challenged by Brighterdaysahead.
• Boodles Fred Winter Handicap Hurdle: Beyond Your Dreams and Stencil are highlighted.
• National Hunt Chase: Haiti Couleurs and Transmission are top picks, offering course experience.

Cheltenham Free Bets and Offers

Many sportsbooks offer free bets for the Cheltenham Festival, allowing punters to place wagers using promotional tokens. These offers are often available to new customers who register, deposit funds, and place a qualifying bet.

Top Betting Sites and Their Offers

• Betway: Known for a user-friendly experience and quality promotions. New customers can benefit from a welcome offer and additional features like bet builders.
• CopyBet: Provides innovative betting tools and bonuses. New users can claim a welcome offer, with ongoing promotions for regular bettors.
• Spreadex: Offers competitive odds and a wide selection of markets. Free bet promotions allow bettors to wager without using their own funds.
• Betfred: A trusted bookmaker with promotions, including daily price boosts and welcome bonuses.
• William Hill: One of the oldest bookmakers, providing a secure betting experience and various free bet offers.

How to Claim Free Bets

1. Click the claim link for the preferred sportsbook.
2. Select ‘Sign Up’ and complete the registration form.
3. Verify the account via the email confirmation link.
4. Deposit funds using an eligible payment method.
5. Place a qualifying bet as per the sportsbook’s terms and conditions.
6. Receive and use the free bets on Cheltenham races.

Important Terms and Conditions

Each sportsbook has unique terms for its Cheltenham free bets. Key conditions to be aware of include:

• Minimum odds requirements (e.g., must bet at 1.5+ or 2.0+).
• Roll-over conditions (some winnings may need to be wagered before withdrawal).
• Free bet expiry dates (most are valid for seven days).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the Cheltenham Festival 2025?

The Cheltenham Festival 2025 takes place from March 11th to March 14th.

Which bookmaker has the best free bet offers?

Betway and Betfred are noted for their generous free bet bonuses and easy-to-claim rewards.

Can I cash out a free bet?

Most sportsbooks do not allow free bets to be cashed out early, as free bet stakes are generally not included in cash-out values. Always check the terms and conditions.