‘He’s not himself’ – Willie Mullins issues worrying update on one of his biggest Cheltenham Festival stars
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WILLIE MULLINS has issued a worrying update on one of his biggest Cheltenham Festival stars, admitting: "He hasn't been himself.". El Fabiolo was unbeatable in his novice chase season, smashing Jonbon by five lengths en route to winning the Arkle. The Simon Munir and Isaac Souede-owned monster then took Punchestown's 2m Grade novice chase by 11 lengths the following month before recording two further wins.
![[Winning horse, jockey, and trainer celebrating at a race.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/celebrate-winning-bar-one-racing-865371487.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. But his 2-9 Champion Chase flop was one of the biggest shocks in years at Cheltenham.
And he was put in his place by Jonbon when they had a rematch at Sandown in their big Celebration Chase last April. El Fabiolo, who has earnings of almost £500,000, hasn't been seen on a racecourse since. He is a best-price 12-1 for this year's Champion Chase and 8-1 for the Ryanair.
But Mullins admitted during a stable visit that he hasn't been wowed by his former star chaser in recent weeks. And he said though El Fabiolo has an entry at next weekend's Dublin Racing Festival, he needs to show more at home to convince his boss he can win at the top level again.
