Mike Tindall led the triumphant return of the Sporting Life newspaper at Paddington Station this morning, marking the opening day of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival.
The former England rugby union international distributed free copies of the special commemorative issue to an estimated 20,000 racing fans expected to travel from Paddington to Cheltenham today.
The iconic sporting publication has returned for one day only, with its first print run this millennium, with Mike at the forefront of the distribution effort.
The limited-edition newspaper marks a significant moment for Sporting Life, which previously ran in print from 1859 until 1998.
Mike Tindall led the triumphant return of the Sporting Life newspaper at Paddington Station this morning
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The special edition features an exclusive interview with Sporting Life ambassador Willie Mullins, the most successful Cheltenham Festival trainer of all time, and expert tips and analysis for the week's biggest races.
Mike shared his enthusiasm for the publication's return: "Cheltenham Festival is the most exciting week in the horse racing calendar for many fans, myself included!
"Sporting Life is an institution in racing, and when I heard that they were bringing the newspaper back for one-day-only, I was really pleased to be a part of it."
Sebastian Butterworth, Director of Sporting Life, explained: "While now we operate purely digitally, we wanted to roll back the years and give fans heading to Cheltenham a keepsake to commemorate their day."
The former England rugby union international distributed free copies of the special commemorative issue to an estimated 20,000 racing fans expected to travel from Paddington to Cheltenham today
PA
Butterworth concluded: "We hope our readers enjoy it."
Following the newspaper distribution, Mike joined Zara Tindall to step out in style for the first day of Cheltenham Festival.
The royal couple coordinated their outfits perfectly for the prestigious racing event.
Zara, who serves as a director at Cheltenham racecourse, looked elegant in a navy Fairfax & Favor coat.
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Mike at the forefront of the distribution effort
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She complemented her ensemble with striking mustard yellow accessories, including a bow-detailed hat.
The equestrian was recently unveiled as an ambassador for luxury brand Fairfax & Favor earlier this month.
Mike matched his wife's sophisticated look with a navy suit and yellow printed tie, posing for pictures with fellow racegoers as the gates opened.
The Tindalls were joined by numerous celebrities from the worlds of sport, TV and fashion at the Gloucestershire racecourse.
