King George VI Chase Preview, Odds, and Picks (Dec 26)

One of the most important races of the National Hunt season is set for Dec 26, as Kempton Park hosts the G1 King George VI Chase. A total of three miles will be covered by the field, with the runners requiring to jump 18 fences. With Irish interest, it is expected to be one of the best renewals of the race in modern history. Find our picks here.

How to Watch

• When: Friday, December 26, 2025. 9:30 AM ET
• Where: Kempton Park, London, England
• How to Watch: FanDuel TV

King George VI Chase Odds

Latest odds taken from an offshore sportsbook. Correct as of 12/22/25 at 8:50 AM ET)

King George VI Chase Recent Winners

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Race Preview

The G1 King George has been a British sporting tradition on Boxing Day throughout history, with only the Cheltenham Gold Cup ranking higher in terms of prestige. Willie Mullins looks set to send two runners over, adding further intrigue to the race.

Gaelic Warrior heads the betting in a rematch with Fact To File after beating his stablemate in a thrilling edition of the G1 John Durkan last month. The seven-year-old is proven over three miles, winning the G1 Aintree Bowl at the Grand National meeting in April. However, as is the case with Fact to File, it remains to be seen how gruelling a race both had on their comeback.

Fact To File was the dominant runner over two and a half miles last season, landing Cheltenham Festival success in the G1 Ryanair Chase. However, it remains unknown whether he stays three miles after being beaten by Galopin Des Champs in both the G1 Savills Chase and G1 Irish Gold Cup last season.

Jango Baie is one of the newest runners in the staying division for the Nicky Henderson stable. The six-year-old won stylishly on his comeback, landing the G2 1965 Chase at Ascot. Stayed well to win last season’s G1 Arkle Chase, and plenty of evidence to suggest that this staying trip could be perfect for him.

The strength of this year’s edition is reflected by the fact that last year’s one-two, Banbridge and Il Est Francais, are bigger prices. Djelo’s jumping is an asset, but he could lack the class to play a commanding role in a King George that is stacked with quality.

King George VI Chase Picks

Previous course form is a must at Kempton, with nine of the last 12 winners having run at the track on at least one previous occasion. The Jukebox Man has been my preferred selection since winning the G1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at this meeting 12 months ago.

Was forced to miss the big spring festivals after that win, but returned to action by beating Grand National favorite Iroko in the Graduation Chase at Haydock. Lots going in his favor for a Ben Pauling stable in red-hot form.

Free Pick:

• The Jukebox Man