Faugheen to miss Cheltenham

The reigning Champion Hurdler and odds on favourite for this year's renewal at the Cheltenham Festival, Faugheen has been ruled out through injury.

The horse is reported to have a soreness in a suspensory ligament.

Trainer Willie Mullins said: "He was just a little bit sore after working and our vet confirmed he had a small suspensory. I just took a view that it was better to stop now and he'd be back for next year."

Bookmakers have reacted to the news by installing Faugheen's stablemate Annie Power as their new 2/1 favourite for the event.

The mare returned to action at Punchestown today when sauntering to victory in a three-runner contest.

She, like Faugheen, races in the Ricci silks. Annie Power is not currently entered for the Champion Hurdle but can be supplemented.