Redknapp runner among King George contenders

The King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day features Gaelic Warrior and Fact To File as the contenders.

After Gaelic Warrior narrowly defeated his stablemate at Punchestown last month, the pair, who were trained by Willie Mullins, are scheduled to meet again.

Jango Baie, the former football manager owned by Harry Redknapp, and Nicky Henderson’s Arkle Chase winner are also included in the nine confirmations.

Former Tottenham, West Ham, and Bournemouth manager Redknapp said, “I know hard it is going to be a dream come true.

“It’s probably comparable to entering the Champions League, isn’t it?” You consider the teams that are involved and say, “My God,” but you still believe you have a chance and a dream that you can fulfill.

Trainer Ben Pauling won the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at the meeting a year ago.

Banbridge and Il Est Francais, the King George first and second, will resume their rivalry last year.

Djelo, who defeated Charlie Hall and Peterborough Chase, joins Croke Park and Master Chewy as other contenders.

The festive feature coincides with the uncertain future of Kempton’s racecourse.