Rich Ricci tips the ‘real’ Vautour for glory at Cheltenham

Owner Rich Ricci believes Vautour may have been underestimated ahead of today’s JLT Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham.

The Willie Mullins-trained six-year-old was one of the most impressive winners of last year’s Festival when powering clear in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, and though he is two from three over fences, he has yet to rediscover that brilliance.

A serious mistake contributed to a hugely disappointing run over Christmas, but he got back on the winning trail at Leopardstown in January.