That Punchestown win on 30 April 2025 wasn’t just a bounce back — it was a statement. When he finds that rhythm, there’s no one in Europe who can live with him. He turned what could’ve been a quiet end to his season into a demolition job, brushing aside top-level opposition like they were mid-80s handicappers. That field included the King George winner — and he had them cooked by the third last.

Sure, Cheltenham didn’t go his way this year — slightly off his game, ridden a touch cold, maybe Cheltenham took more out of him in 2024 than we thought — but the way he pulverised them at Punchestown says loud and clear: I’m still the boss. Three Irish Gold Cups, two Cheltenham Golds, now back to his devastating best. Fastorslow and Inothewayurthinkin have landed punches, but the crown’s still his when he’s on song.

If he returns at 10 in 2026 for another Gold Cup tilt? Don’t rule him out. Best Mate was the last to do the treble, and this lad’s engine, grit, and class keep him in the conversation.