Clan Des Obeaux has been made new favourite for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The Paul Nicholls star looked impressive during the pre-Festival tours, so much so he has now overtaken Presenting Percy and defending champion Native River in the betting.

Nicholls has high hopes that Clan Des Obeaux can end a run of 10-years without a win in the Festival’s marquee race, and he is now 7/2 for victory.

Nicholls said: “He is an experienced horse that has matured, and he has done the talking himself in the last few runs.

“We are really excited about running him in the Gold Cup. We don’t know what he will be end up being rated, or where he will end up.

“Kauto won his first Gold Cup at seven, so he is the right age. Fingers crossed, with a bit of luck in running, he will run a big race.”

William Hill now make Clan Des Obeux their clear 7/2 favourite for the Gold Cup, with Presenting Percy is 4/1 from 7/2 and Native River 6/1 from 11/2.

“Everyone is raving about Clan Des Obeaux and on this seasons form he is the one to beat,” said William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams.