We have the pace guide, Timeform view, Daryl Jacob insight, plus key video replays for the William Hill Aintree Hurdle on day one of the Grand National Festival.
Timeform Analyst's Verdict
There wasn't much between BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD and The New Lion when second and third in the Champion Hurdle last month, where both shaped as if a return to this longer distance will suit. Marginal preference is for Brighterdaysahead, who was an impressive winner of a Grade 1 over C&D as a novice. El Fabiolo probably has a bigger performance in him over hurdles and isn't taken lightly having skipped Cheltenham.
Daryl Jacob Insight
I'm really excited to see BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD in here over 2m4f, I think the trip will see her much more in her comfort zone.
Add the 7lb weight allowance and the configuration of the track - I'm still far from convinced that the undulations of Cheltenham suit her - and she appeals as the most likely winner from the Champion Hurdle quartet.
I still have questions hanging over The New Lion around how good he actually is. He still has something to prove to me, but Brighterdaysahead, we know her class.
She was very good when winning the Mersey here as a novice and I think Aintree will be much more her cup of tea than Cheltenham. I'd take her to win this in style.
El Fabiolo will run well. He's not a Champion Hurdle horse - he showed that at the DRF - as he simply hasn't got the gears for two miles at this level anymore. But he'll be happier at this trip, he likes Aintree, and he lost only by a neck to Jonbon here as a novice.
After a confidence booster in a 2m2f conditions race at Leopardstown last time he comes in off a good prep and he can get amongst them, but beating Brighterdaysahead might be a stretch too far.
Timeform Pace Guide
Pace Forecast: Weak
Specific Pace Hint: The likelihood that the pace will be steady has to be a negative for the prospects of THE NEW LION if not BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD.
Individual Price Hint: N/A
Key Video Form
Brighterdaysahead, The New Lion, Alexei, Golden Ace
Unibet Champion Hurdle, Cheltenham, 10/03/2026
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