Already a world record holder with 21 Grade 1 successes to his name, Hurricane Fly is currently tied with Istabraq on four wins in the two-mile contest but heads an entry of eight horses for this year’s €110,000 renewal as he bids to maintain a remarkable unbeaten record at the course.

Jezki, trained by Jessica Harrington, is set to provide the stiffest competition once again after the pair served up a thrilling finish to the Grade 1 Ryanair Hurdle only last week in which Hurricane Fly prevailed by half-a-length (see Ryan McElligott’s report opposite).

In addition, his trainer Willie Mullins is likely to be represented in the race by the Ryanair Hurdle third Arctic Fire and he has also entered Kempton’s runaway Christmas Hurdle winner Faugheen and Diakali.

Pat Keogh, CEO of Leopardstown Racecourse said: “We are honoured that Hurricane Fly will be back at Leopardstown for the BHP Insurance Irish Champion Hurdle on Sunday 25 January. His record here speaks for itself and the crowds love him. What a race we have in store for the Grade 1 Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase. With his style of racing, Un De Sceaux is one you can’t take your eye off. I’m sure Vautour will be back and a rematch with Clarcam, who was one of the most impressive winners we had at Christmas, will be something to look forward to,” he said.