Ex-football manager Harry Redknapp has declared that his Cheltenham Gold Cup contender, The Jukebox Man, is “not for sale at any price” as he eagerly awaits one of the biggest moments in his racing career.
The 78-year-old celebrated alongside his family the victory of the eight-year-old gelding in the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day. Now, Redknapp’s sights are firmly set on the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup on Friday, March 13.
Speaking at trainer Ben Pauling’s Naunton Downs yard during a media event organized by The Jockey Club, Redknapp shared his excitement: “It’s a dream to have a horse run in the Gold Cup and go there with a real chance. This horse has taken us to places you only dream about as an owner.”
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He emphasized his deep attachment to The Jukebox Man, saying, “He’s my dream horse and he wouldn’t be for sale at any price. We’re not saying we’ll win, but we have a serious chance in an open race.”
Though Redknapp spent 52 years in professional football, horseracing has become the hot topic whenever he appears publicly. At Q&A events, fans often approach him to discuss The Jukebox Man rather than his football career. Reflecting on this shift, Redknapp said, “When I go to Cheltenham, people want to talk racing, not football. Even former players I managed ask about the horse!”
Redknapp could face former rival Sir Alex Ferguson at the Cheltenham Festival, where the two share mutual admiration. “Alex is a great man and loves racing. We’ve had some enjoyable days together,” said Redknapp.
Comparing race day nerves to football finals, Redknapp admitted, “I’m probably more nervous watching a race than being on the touchline. You hold your breath at every jump. All you can do is pray for the horse’s safety and hope the jockey and horse deliver.”
His long-term relationship with Pauling has seen many highs, including owning Festival winner Shakem Up’arry in 2024. Redknapp recalled, “That victory was a dream come true. Ben was confident The Jukebox Man could match or even surpass that.”
Remarkably, The Jukebox Man was viewed skeptically early on, with odds against him, but Pauling’s confidence never wavered. “In the King George, even when I thought he was beaten, he fought back to win. It was incredible,” said Redknapp.
Redknapp’s first venture into racehorse ownership started while managing Bournemouth FC with a syndicate buying a horse named Slick Cherry, inspired by the club’s nickname, The Cherries. “That was the start of it all. I’ve loved racing since childhood,” he added, recalling family ties to betting and memories of hearing the Grand National on the radio.
Trainer Ben Pauling describes Redknapp as “a national treasure” and values their enduring partnership. “Harry is a competitor who truly loves the sport. To have a horse of this calibre for the Gold Cup is thrilling for the whole team.”
Pauling shared that preparing The Jukebox Man for the season was carefully planned, focusing on the King George and then aiming for the Gold Cup. “The horse came through the King George better than expected. Now we hope to bring him to Cheltenham in top form for a big day.”
Redknapp concluded with optimism: “One of the horses will have to stand out to win the race—I sincerely hope it’s ours. We’re doing everything we can to make that happen.”