The 2025 Cheltenham Festival is just around the corner, and with it comes the highly anticipated Prestbury Cup—the thrilling competition between British and Irish trainers to determine who reigns supreme at one of the biggest events in horse racing.
In this comprehensive preview, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Prestbury Cup, including its history, betting odds, previous winners, and the top horses to watch at this year’s festival. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the Cheltenham action, this guide has you covered!
What is the Prestbury Cup?
The Prestbury Cup is a prestigious competition between Great Britain and Ireland, where each nation earns points based on where the winning horse is trained. Introduced in 2014, the cup includes all 28 races at the Cheltenham Festival, making it a true test of skill and strategy for trainers on both sides of the Irish Sea.
The first nation to reach 15 wins claims the cup. If the scores are tied at 14-14, the cup is shared—a rare occurrence that last happened in 2019.
Ireland has dominated the Prestbury Cup in recent years, winning the last five editions. Britain’s last victory was in 2015, and they’ll be eager to end their decade-long drought in 2025.
Prestbury Cup 2025 Betting Odds
Unsurprisingly, Ireland are the overwhelming favourites to retain the Prestbury Cup in 2025. Here are the latest odds from Paddy Power, one of the top betting sites for Irish punters:
| Outcome | Odds |
|---|---|
| Ireland to win | 1/8 |
| Great Britain to win | 7/1 |
| Tie | 14/1 |
Odds correct as of 1:20pm, 12th February 2025. Subject to change.
Ireland’s dominance in recent years makes them a strong bet, but could this be the year Britain stages a comeback? Keep an eye on the odds as the festival approaches!
How is the Prestbury Cup Won?
The Prestbury Cup is decided across all 28 races at the Cheltenham Festival. The first nation to reach 15 wins secures the cup, meaning it could be decided as early as the third day of racing.
While Ireland has been in formidable form, there’s always room for surprises. Occasionally, a horse trained outside Ireland or Britain can win a race, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to the competition.
Prestbury Cup: Previous Winners
Here’s a look at how the Prestbury Cup has played out over the years:
| Year | Irish Wins | British Wins | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 12 | 15 | Great Britain |
| 2015 | 13 | 14 | Great Britain |
| 2016 | 15 | 13 | Ireland |
| 2017 | 19 | 9 | Ireland |
| 2018 | 17 | 11 | Ireland |
| 2019 | 14 | 14 | Tie |
| 2020 | 17 | 10 | Ireland |
| 2021 | 23 | 5 | Ireland |
| 2022 | 18 | 10 | Ireland |
| 2023 | 18 | 10 | Ireland |
| 2024 | 18 | 9 | Ireland |
Ireland’s recent dominance is undeniable, with trainers like Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott leading the charge. Can Britain turn the tide in 2025?
Horses to Watch at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival
Here are three standout horses tipped to shine at this year’s festival:
- Constitution Hill
- Race: Champion Hurdle
- Odds: 8/15 (Ladbrokes)
- Why Watch?: This unbeaten superstar has won all 10 of his races and is the clear favourite for the Champion Hurdle. After missing last year’s festival due to injury, Constitution Hill is back and ready to dominate.
- Jonbon
- Race: Champion Chase
- Odds: 5/6 (Sky Bet)
- Why Watch?: With five consecutive wins, Jonbon is in stellar form. He’s the odds-on favourite to claim victory in the Champion Chase, avenging his second-place finish in 2023.
- Galopin Des Champs
- Race: Cheltenham Gold Cup
- Odds: 8/15 (Betfair)
- Why Watch?: A two-time Gold Cup winner, Galopin Des Champs is aiming for a historic hat-trick. Despite a minor setback earlier in the season, he’s back to his best and ready to defend his title.
Prestbury Cup FAQs
What is the Prestbury Cup?
The Prestbury Cup is a competition between British and Irish trainers at the Cheltenham Festival. Each race win earns a point for the nation where the winning horse is trained. The first to 15 wins takes the cup.
What do the winners receive?
While there’s no physical trophy, the Prestbury Cup is a matter of national pride and a testament to the skill of each country’s trainers.
Which races count towards the Prestbury Cup?
All 28 races at the Cheltenham Festival contribute to the Prestbury Cup standings.
Can I watch the Prestbury Cup online?
Yes! Most major betting sites and sports networks offer live streaming of the Cheltenham Festival. Check out our recommended betting sites for the best viewing options.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Prestbury Cup promises to be another thrilling chapter in the rivalry between British and Irish trainers. With Ireland heavily favoured, can Britain stage an upset? Stay tuned for more updates, betting tips, and expert analysis as the festival approaches!
For the latest odds and exclusive Cheltenham free bets, check out our recommended betting sites.
