Patrick Mullins, like many others, will be eager to see the rematch between Fact to File and Gaelic Warrior in the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase on Boxing Day. Initially, Fact to File seemed set to stay in Ireland for the Savills Chase, but with heavy betting action on Kempton’s event, there were rumors that plans might be shifting.
Crossatton Yard looks well represented with Gaelic Warrior, trained by Willie Mullins and currently the favorite, leading the betting. Following a fierce clash at John Durcan earlier this season, the prospect of these two horses facing off again, alongside Arkle winner Django Bey and Jukebox Man, promises to be thrilling for National Hunt enthusiasts.
Mullins, assistant to his father, said, “Frank Berry, racing manager for Fact to File’s owner JP McManus, wanted to run Fact to File. His poor performance in last year’s three-mile Leopardstown final might support that decision.” Mullins praised the John Durcan race, noting how unusual it was to see two of Ireland’s finest compete over that distance. He admitted concern the clash might leave a mark but confirmed both horses remain in good form.
He added, “Neither horse pushed hard until the penultimate stage, and the sticks were only used after the race ended, so they genuinely raced for just two furlongs.” Mullins also mentioned another horse, Galopin Deschamps, and said while Gaelic Warrior hadn’t excelled at Leopardstown, he isn’t worried about trying him over three miles. He noted Gaelic Warrior’s previous two-mile performance on a dry track wasn’t ideal.
Both horses are impressive but hard to classify as three-mile chasers since they prefer to work hard during the race. Mullins expressed excitement to see how they perform at Kempton.
King George sponsors have Gaelic Warrior as the 2-1 favorite with Fact to File at 7-2. Nicola McGeady, a spokeswoman, remarked, “Gaelic Warrior has long been a leader in the King George betting, but recent support for Fact to File has made the race more competitive than ever.”
Fan Take: This anticipated rematch between two top-tier horses adds an electrifying storyline to the King George VI Chase, making it a must-watch event for horse racing fans. The outcome could significantly impact the National Hunt landscape by redefining the pecking order among elite chasers.
