The battle for the 2025/26 UK National Hunt Trainers’ Championship looks set to be one of the most compelling in years, with early Cheltenham odds already hinting at how the major yards are shaping up ahead of the new season. Last year’s title race produced drama right up to the final day, and with trainers strengthening their squads through the summer, anticipation is building for another fiercely competitive campaign.
From Willie Mullins’ bid for a remarkable hat-trick to the ever-persistent pressure of Dan Skelton, the experienced hands of Paul Nicholls and Nicky Henderson, and the growing influence of young talents like Olly Murphy, the stage is set for a fiercely competitive season. With that in mind, here are the leading chances for the top British trainers this season.
Willie Mullins
Willie Mullins heads into the 2025/26 National Hunt season as one of the frontrunners to claim a third consecutive UK trainers’ title. After staging a dramatic late surge on the final day of the 2024/25 campaign, Mullins overtook Dan Skelton to clinch the crown, orchestrating key victories and placing multiple runners in the biggest races at Sandown. His Closutton operation is in especially strong shape, boasting a deep squad of high-calibre horses capable of contesting major pots throughout the season. Mullins is expected to target the most valuable UK prizes early and often, signalling his intent to maintain dominance.
Dan Skelton
Dan Skelton stands once again as Mullins’ chief rival after pushing him all the way to the wire last season. Skelton led the standings for much of the campaign thanks to his yard’s exceptional volume of runners and consistent results in handicaps, novice races, and mid-tier graded contests. His ability to accumulate prize money steadily across the season keeps him a constant threat, even when Mullins’ big-race raids swing the momentum. With another powerful team assembled and the hunger from last season’s near miss still fresh, Skelton appears poised for another strong challenge.
Paul Nicholls
Paul Nicholls remains a giant of the jumping scene and a perennial presence in the trainers’ title conversation. With 14 championships to his name, he has the experience and tactical nous to make an impact whenever high-value races are on offer. Although his modern approach focuses on targeted campaigns rather than sheer numbers, Nicholls excels in major Saturday handicaps and feature meetings, where big-money prizes can quickly alter the standings. His Ditcheat yard continues to produce top-class talent, and while he may not be the bookmakers’ favourite, his proven ability to peak at the right moments makes him a compelling contender.
Nicky Henderson
Though not expected to match the volume of Mullins or Skelton, Nicky Henderson remains one of the most respected and capable trainers in Britain. A six-time champion, Henderson thrives when placing talented horses in the right races and remains a formidable force at the higher levels of the sport. If his stable enjoys a consistent, injury-free season with strong showings in the major festivals and graded races, he could easily emerge as a dark-horse challenger. His experience, patience, and quality-over-quantity approach ensure he remains firmly on the radar.
Olly Murphy
Olly Murphy continues his trajectory as one of the most exciting young trainers in the UK. Last season marked a significant step forward, with 141 winners and a growing reputation for striking in valuable races. His team combines promising youngsters with increasingly seasoned handicappers, giving him depth and versatility. Murphy’s appetite for progress — alongside new partnerships and expanding resources — positions him as an emerging force in the championship picture. While a title win may still be a future ambition, he is expected to challenge the established order and play a significant role in shaping the prize-money standings.
