The 2026 edition of the Grand National is fast approaching.
Below, we take a look at the top contenders for glory at the iconic Aintree Racecouse, as well as provide our sports betting verdict for one of the biggest horse races in the world.
And remember, we will have all the best horse racing odds on Aintree available throughout the whole Festival. Check them out now!
Written by Jake Wilkes
*All odds are subject to change
The Aintree Grand National 2026 – The Key Contenders
I Am Maximus – The 2024 Winner and runner up in the contest last year, I Am Maximus carries top weight and is only 1lb higher than 12 months ago. The choice of Paul Townend, who often comes alive at Aintree, benefitting from stamina-gruelling contests. He showed the fire still burns in December when second in the Grade 1 Savills Chase, which surprised many, as he normally savaes his best for the spring months. If he is contention in the closing stages, it could take a good one to pass him.
Grangeclare West – Almost certainly would have finished a lot closer last year had it not been for a final flight mistake. Stayed on into third then and has since held his form well, looking better than ever when winning the Grade 3 BobbyJo at Fairyhouse when last seen. Patrick Mullins is on board and had decided to ride him instead of last year’s winner Nick Rockett, before the latter was withdrawn. He will no doubt be popular and with a clear round of jumping, it is hard to see many beating him.
Jagwar – Stamina to prove, but that makes him very unexposed as a result. A sublime looking horse who was very progressive last season, winning four times from five starts. He has continued to improve, albeit at a moderate rate this year without winning, but ran with real credit when second in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. He is not the most fluent jumper and that has held him back in recent starts, but his raw ability is evident – and if he handles the fences, he could be anything.
Iroko – Down the field in the Ultima, but there is a suspicion that he’ll come on a fair bit fitness wise from that run. He ran a mighty race when finishing fourth in this last year and with an extra year of experience, he could progress further. He probably hasn’t done his chances any favours when winning at Ascot in December, as he was raised 6 lbs as a result, meaning he is 5 lbs worse off than 12 months ago. He is the stablemate to Jagwar and provides the Greenall and Guerriero yard with a strong hand.
Panic Attack – A very likeable mare who has found a new lease of life since joining Dan Skelton. Winner of the Paddy Power and the Coral Gold Cup, a double that is very rarely achieved, confirmed she is still in form when winning in listed company in January. Also third in the Mares’ Chase at Cheltenham, she jumped well but seemingly found the two-mile four trip too sharp. She sneaks in off a low weight and could be going under the radar.
VERDICT:
- Grangeclare West – 9/1
- I Am Maximus – 7/1
- Jagwar – 10/1
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