Nicky Henderson has confirmed that Constitution Hill will skip the Cheltenham Festival, ending weeks of uncertainty about the star hurdler’s next steps.
Career Challenges and Recent Setbacks
Once unbeaten over hurdles, Constitution Hill emerged as the top contender for the 2025 Champion Hurdle. However, a fall during that race triggered a string of poor results, including three falls in his last four hurdle starts.
Successful Flat Debut at Southwell
Henderson tested the horse on the Flat for the first time at Southwell over 1m4f on an all-weather track. In front of a record crowd exceeding 3,000, Constitution Hill dominated by nine and a half lengths on the ITV-broadcast Friday Night Live card, hinting at strong potential as a Flat racer.
The following day, Henderson noted that such success created a major dilemma, warning that a mishap at Cheltenham could erase the positive momentum. He described the decision as a toss-up at the time, pending discussions with owner Michael Buckley and a schooling session in Lambourn.
Market Signals and Final Call
Betting markets reflected growing doubts, with Constitution Hill drifting as Champion Hurdle favorite and odds against his participation shortening to 1-14. Henderson’s statement soon followed, declaring the horse would not risk the Unibet Champion Hurdle.
Michael Buckley and I have spent considerable time deliberating Constitution Hill’s future and have decided he will not run in the Unibet Champion Hurdle the week after next.
Last Friday night proved magical for everyone involved. We appreciated the widespread popularity and affection shown to Conrad, as he is known here. It was a great night for him, us, and British Horse Racing. We recognize public concerns over hurdling risks and believe it is unfair to ask him and Nico to face them again.
His Friday performance shows a promising Flat career ahead, potentially opening new horizons.
The statement continued: “Thanks to thousands of supporters for their input; the poll was nearly 50/50. This marks a sad day for National Hunt fans hoping to see him reclaim his crown, and especially for Nico, who invested heavily in fixing jumping flaws.
Yet he departs hurdles sound and content, ready for the next phase. It has been an remarkable journey, with Michael enduring lows alongside extraordinary highs from this exceptional horse.
Cheltenham organizers have invited Constitution Hill to parade on Champion Hurdle day, allowing fans a final National Hunt farewell.”
Stellar Hurdling Record
Constitution Hill secured ten straight hurdle wins, highlighted by the 2022 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and the 2023 Champion Hurdle over future champion State Man. He missed the 2024 event and fell four out in 2025 despite 1-2 favoritism.
