WILLIE MULLINS has confirmed one of his huge Cheltenham Festival fancies is set to miss the entire season. Multiple Grade 1 winner Il Etait Temps, who is owned in part by former England cricketer Craig Kieswetter, was awesome last campaign. He picked up top tier prizes at Leopardstown, Aintree and Punchestown.
![[Jockey celebrating a horse race win.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/45-close-brothers-manifesto-novices-893350594_468f8d.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The only place to get Templegate's tips first - and at the best prices - is by joining Sun Racing's brilliant Members Enclosure. Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing's best winning team and get... Become a member today for just £1*. *For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
SIGN UP NOW. 18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk. His only defeats at Grade 1 level came at the hands of superstar Gaelic Warrior.
But he wasn't entered in the Champion Chase or Ryanair for the Festival. And Mullins admits his only chance of a run this season would be at Punchestown at the end of April. But a more likely scenario would be writing of the season entirely and coming back next year.
The legendary Closutton boss said: "I’m not sure he will make this season at all really which is disappointing. "He just got a little knee trouble and we had him right and back in training and then it went wrong again. "I’ve almost pulled the plug in my own mind and if he comes back for Punchestown that would be the very best thing.".
