Willie Mullins says Cheltenham Festival changes are "backwards move"
The former jockey said he did not approve of professional jockeys racing in the event
Former jockey Willie Mullins has said that allowing professional riders to race in the National Hunt Chase in Cheltenham is a "backwards move".
The race, which stretches three miles and six furlongs, has been one of three races at the Cheltenham Festival to be changed, as well as the Kim Muir and the Hunters' Chase.
Previously, professional jockeys were not allowed to race in the events, but in a number of race changes to be introduced from next year, these restrictions will be lifted.
Now, the race will be run as a 0-145 novices' handicap chase, allowing that more experienced horse riders to take part.
Mullins, who has won the Turner Cup a record four times, left the jockey world to become a horse trainer, scoring another four victories with other horses.
Speaking in an interview, the sportsperson said: "It's very disappointing for amateur riders that they weren't consulted and it's a feature race for amateurs over the years with prestige and history.
"I thought that was a backwards move. They've been messing around with the race for years and have not made it any better."
Other horse racing stars have also come out against the rules being made by the Jockey Club, with Ruby Walsh telling the club to expect a "mixed response".
The Jockey Club said the changes had been made, so that patrons could enjoy "a much better experience and value for all visitors".
The trainer added that these were pressing issued that needed to be addressed.
"We all know what is wrong with Cheltenham and it has just got too expensive for ordinary punters to go there for a day's racing - and if they want to get the people back there, then it's cost, nothing to do with the horses that are running," Mullins added.