The Cheltenham November meeting, which concluded on Sunday, November 15, 2026, was affected by challenging ground conditions and variable weather. The third day of racing proceeded only after a late inspection to assess standing water on the course following several hours of rain.
Over 10,000 racegoers, including a large group of students organised by INVADES, had gathered when the inspection was announced. The course was deemed fit for racing 15 minutes later, concluding a difficult three days for the event.
Saturday's racing saw 29 non-runners, predominantly due to fast ground. This followed nine non-runners on Friday and an additional 15 on Sunday. Friday's card also included three slips by runners on the final bend and the omission of several hurdles in a later race due to low-lying sun.
Jon Pullin, the clerk of the course, noted that the racing industry recognises the changing climate and its predicted impact of more extreme weather patterns. He explained that watering the course was not possible on Thursday or Friday evenings due to forecast freezing temperatures.