Sports Betting News: Theleme Ruled out of the Cheltenham Festival

Connections of top French hurdler Theleme have ruled him out of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival in March following a setback.
 
The talented seven-year-old was among the favourites with online bookmakers for the Stayers’ Hurdle this year before sustaining an injury.
 
Read on as we look at the impact this news has had on the Cheltenham betting before assessing some of the other top stories from the industry this week.

The five-time Grade 1 winner will miss Cheltenham after connections decided there is insufficient time remaining to get him back for the Stayers’ Hurdle.
 
His withdrawal has had little impact on the ante-post market on most betting apps, with reigning champion Teahupoo still rated as the 5/2 favourite.
 
Irish Point and Lossiemouth are next in the betting at 7/1, while 2024 Champion Hurdle winner State Man is rated as a 10/1 shot.

Trainer Nicky Henderson is adamant that Constitution Hill does not need to raise his level to regain his Champion Hurdle title next March.
 
The unbeaten seven-year-old missed the 2024 race due to a respiratory infection and suspected colic, but is on the comeback trail after undergoing wind surgery this summer.
 
Henderson’s Luccia finished three-and-a-half lengths third in the race this year – a form line he believes points to Constitution Hill easily reclaiming his crown.

Flooring Porter showcased his credentials for the 2025 Grand National at Aintree with a superb performance in the Guinness Kerry National on Wednesday.
 
The two-time Stayers’ Hurdle winner made virtually all under jockey Keith Donoghue to win with contemptuous ease at Listowel.
 
The nine-year-old is priced at 33/1 to win the Grand National next April on UK betting sites and could be a good each-way bet given the manner of his victory.