Grey Dawning and Panic Attack Head 43 Entries for 2026 Coral Gold Cup at Newbury

Multiple Grade 1 winner Grey Dawning and defending champion Panic Attack are among 43 horses entered for the 2026 Coral Gold Cup, with another hugely competitive renewal taking shape at Newbury Racecourse.

The entries for one of the biggest handicap chases of the National Hunt season have been revealed, with some of Britain’s and Ireland’s leading trainers targeting the £250,000 contest on Saturday 28th November 2026.

Reigning Champion Trainer Dan Skelton holds a particularly strong hand, with last year’s winner Panic Attack joined by multiple Grade 1 winner Grey Dawning, Il Est Francais and several other exciting contenders.

The prestigious race, staged over approximately three miles and two furlongs, is the centrepiece of Newbury’s two-day Coral Gold Cup meeting, which begins on Friday 27th November.

With previous Cheltenham Festival winners, established Grade 1 performers and promising young chasers among the 43 entries, the 2026 renewal is already shaping up to be a fascinating contest.

Grey Dawning and Panic Attack Lead Dan Skelton’s Strong Challenge

Dan Skelton enjoyed a memorable afternoon at Newbury in November 2025 when Panic Attack stormed to victory in the Coral Gold Cup, completing a remarkable double just two weeks after winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham.

Ridden by Tristan Durrell, the mare produced an outstanding staying performance to defeat Three Card Brag by six and a half lengths, securing one of the biggest victories of Skelton’s championship-winning season.

Panic Attack could now return to defend her crown, although she faces potentially formidable competition from within her own stable.

Grey Dawning is arguably the standout name among the early entries, having established himself as one of Britain’s leading chasers with multiple Grade 1 victories. His most recent success came in the prestigious Melling Chase at Aintree in April, and his presence would add considerable quality to the Newbury field.

However, his lofty handicap rating and potential participation in the Betfair Chase could influence whether he ultimately takes his chance in the Coral Gold Cup.

Skelton has also entered the talented but unpredictable Il Est Francais, who joined his Warwickshire operation from France, alongside Here Comes Georgie, who recently recorded an impressive victory over fences at Cheltenham.

Mr Hope Street, Blueking d’Oroux, Kingston Narcissus are also among the trainer’s possible representatives, giving Skelton several options as he looks to secure consecutive Coral Gold Cup victories.

Haiti Couleurs, Myretown and Wendigo Among Leading Challengers

While Skelton boasts an impressive collection of entries, several other leading trainers will be determined to prevent another victory for the reigning champion.

Rebecca Curtis could saddle Haiti Couleurs, winner of the 2025 Irish Grand National, who has already demonstrated his ability to perform at the highest level in demanding staying contests.

Myretown is another particularly interesting contender for the Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore partnership. The 2025 Ultima Handicap Chase winner returned to winning ways at Kelso last weekend, providing an encouraging indication of his form ahead of a possible Newbury appearance.

Jamie Snowden’s Wendigo also features prominently among the early contenders, while last season’s promising novice chasers Salver and The Jukebox Kid could take on more experienced opposition.

Owner J. P. McManus has several potential representatives, including Jagwar and Iroko from the Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero stable, alongside Tom Lacey’s Montregard.

Nicky Henderson could also have a significant presence through Hyland, Califet En Vol, As The Fella Says and Holloway Queen, while Paul Nicholls has entered Cheltenham Festival winner Caldwell Potter, Quebecois and Regent’s Stroll.

With such a varied collection of proven performers and improving prospects, the race could develop into one of the strongest renewals in recent years.

Irish Challengers Target Newbury Glory

The Irish challenge is another fascinating aspect of the early entries, particularly with several horses already possessing valuable experience in major staying handicaps.

Gordon Elliott has entered Three Card Brag, who finished runner-up to Panic Attack in last year’s Coral Gold Cup and could return in pursuit of an improved result.

Willie Mullins, meanwhile, has several potential challengers, including Galway Plate winner King Alexander, Ballygunner Castle, Fou de Toi and Road To Home.

Ballygunner Castle arrives with particularly relevant form, having won the Grade 3 Kerry National earlier this season. Henry de Bromhead’s Downmexicoway, who finished third in that contest, is another possible Irish representative.

The international interest could extend beyond Ireland, with Giacosa entered for the French-based partnership of Noël George and Amanda Zetterholm.

When Will the Final Coral Gold Cup 2026 Runners Be Confirmed?

Although 43 horses feature among the initial entries, the final field will be considerably smaller, with connections still facing important decisions concerning race targets, fitness and handicap weights.

The first scratching stage takes place on Tuesday 10th November, when the initial list will be reduced as trainers narrow down their plans.

Several horses also hold entries for the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham’s November Meeting, meaning performances elsewhere during the coming weeks could have a significant influence on the eventual Newbury line-up.

The Coral Gold Cup itself takes place on Saturday 28th November 2026, with the £250,000 contest scheduled for 3pm, subject to confirmation.

For Skelton, the prospect of defending Panic Attack’s title while potentially introducing Grey Dawning to the famous Newbury handicap provides an intriguing storyline. However, with numerous leading stables represented, retaining the trophy will be anything but straightforward.

Experience the 2026 Coral Gold Cup with Eventmasters Hospitality

With a high-quality field beginning to emerge, anticipation continues to build for one of the standout fixtures of the winter jumps calendar at Newbury Racecourse.

Eventmasters is delighted to be an Official Hospitality Supplier directly appointed by Newbury Racecourse, offering our exclusive Coral Gold Cup 2026 hospitality packages for Saturday 28th November.

Our Silks Hospitality Package offers an outstanding opportunity to enjoy the racing while entertaining clients, rewarding colleagues or celebrating a special occasion with friends and family.

Guests can enjoy a private table, a superb three-course plated lunch, an inclusive bar featuring house wines, beers and soft drinks, and access to a private viewing balcony overlooking the winning line.

The experience also includes expert racing insight from ITV Racing personality and Eventmasters ambassador Matt Chapman, alongside premium hospitality throughout the afternoon.

With the prospect of Grey Dawning, Panic Attack and several other leading contenders battling for one of National Hunt racing’s most prestigious handicap prizes, Coral Gold Cup Day promises another memorable afternoon at Newbury.

Book your official Coral Gold Cup 2026 hospitality with Eventmasters today and enjoy one of the biggest occasions of the jumps season in exceptional surroundings.

Coral Gold Cup 2026 FAQs

When is the 2026 Coral Gold Cup?

The 2026 Coral Gold Cup takes place on Saturday 28th November at Newbury Racecourse. The race forms the centrepiece of a two-day meeting beginning on Friday 27th November.

How many horses have been entered for the 2026 Coral Gold Cup?

A total of 43 horses have been entered at the initial stage, including Grey Dawning, Panic Attack, Haiti Couleurs, Myretown and Wendigo. The first scratching stage takes place on Tuesday 10th November.

Who won the Coral Gold Cup in 2025?

Panic Attack won the 2025 Coral Gold Cup for trainer Dan Skelton and jockey Tristan Durrell, completing a remarkable double after winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham earlier that month.

What is the prize money for the 2026 Coral Gold Cup?

The 2026 Coral Gold Cup carries a total prize fund of £250,000, making it one of the most valuable handicap chases of the early National Hunt season.

Can I book hospitality for the 2026 Coral Gold Cup?

Yes. Eventmasters offers official Silks Hospitality for the 2026 Coral Gold Cup, featuring premium dining, inclusive drinks, dedicated viewing facilities and expert racing insight from Matt Chapman.