Al Boum Photo in great shape ahead of the Cheltenham Gold Cup

Al Boum Photo will reportedly undergo a 'big bit of work' this week as he prepares to win a third successive Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival. 

He is following a tried and tested route as his only other start this season came at Tramore on New Year's Day in a race he was winning for the third year in a row and he could hardly have been more impressive. 

Mullins stated: “He’s in great shape. He worked well last week and he’s a big bit of work coming up this week.

“He’s uncomplicated, he’s very nice to train.

“I didn’t think when we were buying him we’d be in this position, or indeed the day that he ran out in Punchestown, or when he had the mishap with Ruby (Walsh) jumping the last at Cheltenham.

“He’s got a funny back history – but here he is, a double Gold Cup winner going for his third. We’re very privileged to have him.”

Mullins respects challengers A Plus Tard and Champ, though. He explained: “I think you have to (take A Plus Tard and Champ seriously). Both are stayers, A Plus Tard is bred to stay; Champ proved that he stays all day last year, and he put in a huge performance yesterday. The two of them have put in huge performances as their prep runs.”

Al Boum Photo remains favourite for the Cheltenham Gold Cup and commands plenty of respect in his bid to become the first horse since Best Mate to win National Hunt's Blue Riband three times.