Willie Mullins has made entries for both El Fabiolo and Gaelic Warrior at Sandown this Saturday, aiming to secure his first title as champion trainer in the UK.

The bet365 Celebration Chase, offering £170,000 in prize money, will see Mullins well-prepared with El Fabiolo and Gaelic Warrior, who have both previously won the Arkle at Cheltenham.

Mullins could also field Appreciate It, Dysart Dynamo, and Saint Sam, contributing to his total of 25 entries on the day. Meanwhile, reigning champion chaser Captain Guinness is entered by Henry de Bromhead.

The race could become a season highlight, featuring competitors like Jonbon, Editeur Du Gite, and Edwardstone among the 14 potential entries. Mullins’ closest competitor, Dan Skelton, has entered Nube Negra and his latest addition from Ben Pauling, Harper’s Brook.

A decision on Gaelic Warrior’s participation will be made closer to race day, according to Joe Chambers, racing manager for owners Susannah and Rich Ricci. Chambers shared on the Nick Luck Daily podcast that while the horse is not currently entered in the Champion Chase at Punchestown, due to the €30,000 supplement fee, they are considering the novice race instead.

Nicky Henderson has expressed a preference for Jonbon to run at Sandown rather than traveling to Punchestown, citing concerns over the early need for course watering but emphasizing the importance of safety.

In other races, the bet365 Oaksey Chase will include entries like Ahoy Senor, Henry de Bromhead’s Journey With Me, and Patrick Neville’s The Real Whacker.

Paul Nicholls’ Threeunderthrufive tops the weights for the bet365 Gold Cup, where last year’s winner, Kitty’s Light, is still in contention alongside Dan Skelton’s Le Milos.

Mullins remains hopeful with entries including Nick Rockett and Minella Cocooner, while Impaire Et Passe and Langer Dan are set to possibly clash again in the bet365 Select Hurdle, with Skelton also entering My Drogo.