Champion Hurdle: State Man Now the Favourite After Constitution Hill Withdrawal

Constitution Hill was almost a sure thing to win again, with eight consecutive victories by a wide margin.

Big news came from Seven Barrows on Monday, confirming that last year's Champion Hurdle winner, Constitution Hill, won't be defending his title at the Cheltenham Festival next Tuesday.

His trainer Nicky Henderson shared the announcement through his X account, citing the horse's failure to meet three important markers on his blood test.

Constitution Hill was almost a sure thing to win again, with eight consecutive victories by a wide margin. Many believed the seven-year-old was the most skilled jumper of today. But with him out, the Champion Hurdle is now wide open.

Willie Mullins' State Man has become a stronger contender since Constitution Hill's withdrawal, with odds of 1/3 to win. State Man has been in great shape, winning 10 out of 11 races in the past two years.

French horse Irish Point and Lossiemouth are joint second-favourites at 3/1. Irish Point has won his last four races, including an impressive victory at Leopardstown.

Luccia and Not So Sleepy are also popular choices, both priced at 14/1. Plus, ITV will broadcast 20 hours of Cheltenham Festival action over the four-day event, including exclusive interviews and analysis. So, if you want to see how State Man does in the Champion Hurdle, ITV is your best option.