EL TO MISS FESTIVAL

WILLIE MULLINS is unlikely to run top-class two-mile performer El Fabiolo at the Cheltenham Festival.

- By Melissa Jones

The Simon Munir and Isaac Souede-owned chaser features in the Betmgm Queen Mother Champion Chase and Ryanair markets at 8-1 with William Hill.

But the team behind Prestbury Park’s impressive 2023 Arkle hero are plotting a path to Aintree’s Grand National meeting instead.

After the withdrawal of his main rival Jonbon, El Fabiolo started a red-hot 2-9 favourite for last year’s Champion Chase on day two.