'It's worth a shot' - Rebecca Curtis not shirking the challenge as she confirms Gold Cup prep for Haiti Couleurs

Sean Bowen roars in celebration after winning the Irish National on Haiti Couleurs

Haiti Couleurs: heading back to IrelandCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

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Haiti Couleurs will aim to topple Ireland's best again as Rebecca Curtis confirmed the Irish Gold Cup would be his warm-up for the Cheltenham Festival.

Last season's Irish National winner is a 16-1 chance with Paddy Power for the day-one highlight at the Dublin Racing Festival on Saturday week, and Curtis believes Leopardstown could be the perfect fit as his Gold Cup preparation.

Not only will he be tasked with denying 11-10 favourite Galopin Des Champs a record fourth win, Haiti Couleurs will try to outmuscle him from the front with a plan in place to put the emphasis on stamina.

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James StevensWest Country correspondent

Published on 19 January 2026inBritain

Last updated 12:57, 19 January 2026

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