The match-up everyone hoped to see at Cheltenham – in the wake of all the major withdrawals – won’t be happening as Nicky Henderson confirmed that Altior will not be taking on Douvan at the festival.

Altior has long been linked with a late entry in the Queen Mother Champion Chase to take on Willie Mullins’s imperious Douvan – but his trainer Henderson has confirmed that it will not be happening and as expected he will be going for the Arkle on the opening day.

“There is more chance of him running in the Champion Hurdle than the Champion Chase!”

“There is more chance of him running in the Champion Hurdle than the Champion Chase!” said Henderson at his press day.

“This horse could jump with Douvan and a lot of horses are not going to go with him as they are not fast enough and they can’t jump quick enough. So far, that is what he has been able to do. He can cruise at any pace you like and change gear.”

Whilst Altior won’t be taking on Douvan, his stablemate L’Ami Serge could be put up against him.

“He could possibly go to the National Spirit at Fontwell on Sunday or he could go to the Champion Chase,” Henderson continued.

“We will just see who is going to take on Douvan. Look at the second prize-money. That is my thought with him a little bit.

“It is left-handed over fences and he is good round there.”