William Hill Joins Cheltenham Festival as Sponsor of County Handicap Hurdle
William Hill has been announced as the new sponsor of the County Handicap Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, marking a return to one of horse racing’s most prestigious events. The rebranded William Hill County Handicap Hurdle will be held on 14 March 2025, during Gold Cup Day, the grand finale of the festival.
William Hill’s Heritage in Horse Racing
The partnership reflects William Hill’s longstanding commitment to horse racing, as the bookmaker celebrates over 90 years in the industry.
Daryl West, Head of Media and Sponsorship at William Hill, emphasized this commitment: “As William Hill celebrates over 90 years in the industry, we’re embracing our heritage and being part of horse racing’s biggest days is something we’ve done throughout our history.”
With Gold Cup Day known as one of the biggest days in jump racing, William Hill aims to enhance its connection to this iconic festival.
A Race Known for Its Competitive Edge
The County Handicap Hurdle has built a reputation as one of the Cheltenham Festival’s most fiercely competitive events, often drawing a “maximum field.”
This two-mile hurdle is a major betting event, with William Hill already promising enhanced odds and extra places for each-way betting.
West noted, “The County Hurdle is always a great betting heat, and we’ve seen some incredible hurdlers use it as a springboard to greatness.”
Strengthening Bonds with Iconic Racing Festivals
The sponsorship marks another milestone in William Hill’s association with the UK’s top racing festivals.
Last year, William Hill became the official betting partner of the Randox Grand National Festival under a three-year agreement, and the bookmaker also sponsored several ITV-televised races during Aintree’s spring festival.
With partnerships extending to the Champion Chase at Punchestown, William Hill is now entrenched in the heart of the spring racing season. “We’re delighted to strengthen our relationship with The Jockey Club,” West added.
William Hill’s Rich History at Cheltenham
William Hill’s relationship with Cheltenham dates back decades, including previous sponsorship of the Festival Trophy Handicap Chase from 1998 to 2010 and occasional backing of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.
Dan Glavin, Bookmaker Partnerships Manager at The Jockey Club, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed partnership: “It is fantastic to welcome back such a famous brand as William Hill to sponsorship at The Cheltenham Festival.”