Willie Mullins has made history by becoming the first Irish-based trainer since Vincent O’Brien 70 years ago to be crowned champion over jumps in Britain. Despite El Fabiolo’s defeat in the bet365 Celebration Chase at Sandown, Mullins’ second-place prize money was enough to secure victory over Dan Skelton, whose Nube Negra finished fifth. The Grade One result sealed Mullins’ triumph, marking a remarkable season that also saw him win the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National.
After dominating horse races across Britain, Irish trainer Willie Mullins has prompted bookmakers to pay out on him winning the British champion jumps’ trainer title, despite the season still ongoing. With a substantial lead over his closest rival and an army of horses entered in upcoming races, including the prestigious Sandown finale, Mullins’ victory seems all but assured.
Patrick Mullins, assistant trainer to his father Willie Mullins, has hinted that the Closutton camp could target back-to-back UK Jump Trainers’ Championship victories if they emerge triumphant this season. Following a win at Ffos Las on Monday, Mullins acknowledged the support they have received and expressed their determination to maintain their lead over Dan Skelton and Paul Nicholls.
