Another blow for Willie Mullins as Artic Fire is ruled out of Champion Hurdle

Arctic Fire has been ruled out of the Stan James Champion Hurdle at next month's Cheltenham Festival due to injury.

Having chased home stable companion Faugheen in last year's renewal and in the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown last month, Arctic Fire looked a major contender for top honours next month following last week's shock news that Faugheen would miss the remainder of the season after suffering a setback.