WILLIE MULLINS revealed jockey Paul Townend was ‘not happy’ after Kopek Des Bordes’ electrifying chase debut – owing to an upcoming fixture clash.
The Closutton boss said the reinstated Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase at the Leopardstown Christmas Festival will be Kopek’s next race.
Sign up for the newsletter
Thank you!
But that falls on Boxing Day – the same day as the King George Chase at Kempton.
Mullins looks all set to send the awesome Gaelic Warrior there after his scheduled return in this weekend’s John Durkan Chase.
And Townend’s commitment to Rich Ricci and his horses means he will in all likelihood be picked to ride Gaelic Warrior.
That potentially leaves the massive ride on Kopek Des Bordes up for grabs on the same day.
FESTIVAL FEVER
Book your unforgettable Cheltenham 2026 packages with our exclusive deals
NATIONAL TREASURE
Snap up your Grand National 2026 hotel & ticket package from just £169
Asked by Racing TV’s Gary O’Brien if the 2m chase at Leopardstown was Arkle fav Kopek Des Bordes’ next race, Mullins said: “It is.
“I don’t think Paul was happy with that because it’s King George day and someone else will go.
“Anyhow let’s hope everyone is safe and sound on that day and we have that problem.
“But I’m sure there will be plenty of people with their hand up to ride him… if Paul is going to the King George.”
Most read in Horse Racing
Supreme Novices’ Hurdle monster Kopek Des Bordes lived up to the hype on his chasing bow at Navan.
He made easy work of 2-9 odds to win by 13 lengths – while big Arkle rival Lulamba sauntered home at Exeter just over an hour earlier.
Nicky Henderson’s Joe Donnelly-owned superstar looked incredibly measured at his fences beating, on ratings at least, stronger opposition.
Both main Arkle chances racing on the same afternoon led to some market upheavel.
But in the whole it was Kopek who was backed in ahead of his Seven Barrows rival.
Coral initially took a stance, saying they were more impressed with Lulamba and made them both 5-2 fav having cut the Triumph runner-up from 4s.
The firm’s David Stevens said: “On a big day for two exciting novice chasers, we were more impressed by Lulamba’s Exeter success than we were by Kopek Des Bordes’ victory at Navan, and as a result the pair now share Arkle favouritism.”
But that 5-2 for Kopek Des Bordes was soon cut to 9-4 while Lulamba was left at 5-2.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
