The Racing Post is preparing for a change to its Cheltenham Festival coverage, with pundit Johnny Dineen set to make his final appearances on the outlet’s Upping The Ante show.
Dineen will step away from the programme after the St Patrick’s Day episode on 17 March, ending his run alongside host David Jennings just as the industry enters the busiest betting week of the jump racing calendar.
The update was confirmed during episode 17 of Upping The Ante, sponsored by bet365. Broadcasting from the Cotswolds, Jennings confirmed to viewers that the upcoming show during Cheltenham week would be Dineen’s final appearance.
Despite the timing, Dineen appeared relaxed about balancing the festival with his final broadcast commitments.
Dineen stated: “Listen, there’s only one week in the year so it’s not too bad – I’ll manage it all. I am looking forward to it. It’ll be interesting to see what happens.”
Alongside the announcement, the episode also focused on the latest Cheltenham betting markets, with the Champion Hurdle generating the most discussion.
The market shifted after confirmation that Lossiemouth will run in the Champion Hurdle rather than the Mares’ Hurdle. The decision adds a major contender to the race and has forced bettors to reassess the field.
Dineen admitted the move had shaken his confidence in The New Lion, a horse he had previously described as his festival “banker”.
“I’m terrified of Lossiemouth being in the race,” he said.
The show also saw both presenters finalise their 12-horse Cheltenham tipping squads after making late replacements for non-runners.
Dineen added Meet Me By The Sea (7/1) and Waterford Whispers (6/1), while Jennings brought in Proactif (4/1) and Electric Mason (16/1).
Bet365 traders currently make Jennings the 5/6 favourite to produce the most winners from their squads, with Dineen priced at 5/1.
Looking ahead to the festival, Dineen also warned bettors to be cautious around short-priced favourites, noting that expected dry ground conditions could lead to more unpredictable results in the early races.
