Harry Redknapp misses out on £350k glory as Willie Mullins banks third Gold Cup win in four years

Harry Redknapp couldn’t claim Gold Cup glory at Cheltenham Festival as Gaelic Warrior stormed to a dominant victory.

Paul Townend won for a record fifth time at the illustrious racecourse as trainer Willie Mullins added more success to his stunning portfolio.

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The Jukebox Man, owned by the ex-Tottenham Hotspur manager and avid horse racing fan Redknapp, ran well for much of the race.

However, it tailed off towards the final jumps and Gaelic Warrior was on hand to turn on the gas to cross the line by eight lengths.

Jango Baie was second, with reigning champion Inothewayurthinkin finishing in third.

Both Mullins and Townend have won their third Gold Cup in the last four years at Cheltenham.

The former has won the joint-most as a trainer with Tom Dreaper on five, whilst Townend’s now five triumphs as a jockey is the most ever.

Gaelic Warrior has landed them the grand prize of £351,688.

“It was just extraordinary!” Mullins told ITV in a post-win interview.

“I’m so delighted for the Ricci’s, they’re the first owners to win the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle and the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

“It was fantastic and the way he did it.”

Unfortunately, it was announced shortly afterwards that Envoi Allen has passed away after collapsing on the walk back.

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The horse won on three occasions at Cheltenham Festival, and raced on the course for an eighth consecutive year.

Envoi Allen was due to retire at the conclusion of this year’s festival.

More to follow…