Where to Watch Cheltenham Gold Cup Day 2026: ITV's Ed Chamberlin, Richard Hoiles and Star Pundits Live from 13:00

British racing fans can catch the thrilling climax of the Cheltenham Festival 2026 on Gold Cup Day, Friday 13 March, starting at 13:00 UK time, with comprehensive coverage on major free-to-air channels. ITV1, ITV HD, ITVX, STV (Scotland), STV HD, STV Player, Virgin Media One and Virgin Media Play will broadcast live from the Prestbury Park circuit, featuring the pinnacle of National Hunt racing including the prestigious Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup at 16:00[1][2][5]. For audio enthusiasts, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Sounds App and BBC Sport Online provide expert commentary led by presenter Mark Chapman[User Data].

Leading the ITV presentation is the highly experienced Ed Chamberlin, who has been the face of ITV Racing since 2016, previously fronting Channel 4's coverage for a decade and earning acclaim for his engaging style during four Cheltenham Festivals with the broadcaster. His smooth delivery and deep knowledge make him a staple for viewers tuning in from across the UK and globally via streaming platforms[User Data]. Providing the race calls is Richard Hoiles, one of Britain's most respected commentators with over 25 years in the sport, known for his precise and passionate descriptions that capture every dramatic moment, from the JCB Triumph Hurdle at 13:20 to the Gold Cup showdown[1][5][User Data].

The punditry line-up boasts legends of the turf, starting with Ruby Walsh, the most successful rider in Cheltenham history with 14 Festival wins, who transitioned seamlessly to broadcasting after retiring in 2019, offering invaluable insights drawn from his triumphs aboard horses like Hurricane Fly and Kauto Star[User Data]. Joining him is Sir AP McCoy, the only jockey to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup on board Mr Mulligan in 1997 and holder of a record 4,358 career victories, whose no-nonsense analysis has become a Festival highlight since hanging up his boots in 2015[User Data]. Mick Fitzgerald, a three-time Festival winner including the 2002 Gold Cup on Best Mate, brings his ITV expertise with a career spanning riding for top trainers like Nicky Henderson[User Data].

Completing the expert panel is Megan Nicholls, a former jockey turned ITV presenter who won at Cheltenham as a rider and now provides sharp previews with her trainer father's influence shining through[User Data]. On-the-ground reporting will be handled by Matt Chapman, a familiar face with decades interviewing trainers and jockeys; Oli Bell, known for his pit-side enthusiasm; Luke Harvey, ex-jockey turned reporter; Rishi Persad, the versatile host with BBC and ITV stints; Alice Plunkett, equestrian expert and long-time racing journalist; and Brian Gleeson, bringing Irish perspective from his racing family roots[User Data].

This stellar team ensures every angle of Gold Cup Day is covered, from the opening JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1, £150,000) through the William Hill County Handicap Hurdle, Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle, the showpiece Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (Grade 1, 3m 2f, £625,000 prize money), Festival Hunter Chase and Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Hurdle[1][2][5]. The Gold Cup, the blue riband event, sees the world's elite chasers battle over the Old Course, with gates opening at 10:30 and the first race at 13:20[2].

For those planning their viewing, ITV's coverage emphasises accessibility for British audiences while global fans can access via ITVX streaming. BBC's radio options offer a perfect companion for on-the-go listeners. Learn more about Ruby Walsh's illustrious career at his Wikipedia page. With such broadcasting heavyweights, this Gold Cup Day promises not just racing excellence but top-tier analysis to enhance the spectacle for enthusiasts worldwide.

The Cheltenham Festival 2026, running 10-13 March, draws over 250,000 attendees annually, cementing its status as jump racing's crown jewel. Tune in from 13:00 to witness history unfold under the Prestbury roars.

Article generated: 13 March 2026, 13:11 GMT