In just three days’ time the world’s greatest steeplechase will get underway and as such, now is a great time to grab yourself some great odds and enhanced places on the 2025 Grand National by registering with leading bookmaker William Hill today.
2025 Grand National Contenders: Best Horses to Watch and Latest Odds
The Grand National, one of the most iconic and thrilling events in British sport, continues to capture the imagination of racing fans worldwide. This legendary steeplechase, which dates back to 1839, remains a pinnacle of endurance and excitement in horse racing. As the 2025 edition of the race draws closer, all eyes are on the latest contenders and their odds to win the famous race at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool on Saturday, April 5.
With 34 horses eligible to run, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top favourites, their odds, and what makes them the ones to watch in this year’s Grand National.
Top Favourites for the 2025 Grand National
As the confirmation stage concludes, some key horses have been withdrawn, while others are primed to make their mark. Here’s a look at the leading 2025 Grand National runners, along with their current odds:
1. Stumptown
Odds: 8/1
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
Jockey: Keith Donoghue
Weight: 11st 2lb
Stumptown is being tipped as one of the top contenders after an impressive string of wins, including four consecutive victories over cross-country tracks. His recent strong performance at Cheltenham has bolstered his reputation as a strong contender for the Grand National. Given his experience with top weights and his proven ability to handle challenging courses, Stumptown could very well be Gavin Cromwell’s best shot at the Aintree crown.
2. Iroko
Odds: 8/1
Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero
Jockey: Jonjo O’Neill Jr
Weight: 10st 11lb
Iroko is a rising star in the world of National Hunt racing. With a Grade 1 chase victory at the Cheltenham Festival and a solid preparation run at Kelso, he appears to be finely tuned for the Grand National. Trained specifically for this race, Iroko’s combination of stamina and form could make him a standout performer at Aintree.
3. Intense Raffles
Odds: 11/1
Trainer: Tom Gibney
Jockey: JJ Slevin
Weight: 10st 10lb
Intense Raffles made waves when he triumphed in the Irish National and has been well-prepared for Aintree. After a solid outing in the Bobbyjo Chase, this talented grey could be a serious contender for the win. His strong form, coupled with his tenacity, makes him one to watch.
4. Hewick
Odds: 11/1
Trainer: Shark Hanlon
Jockey: Gavin Sheehan
Weight: 11st 7lb
Hewick, purchased for just £800, has proved himself a true fan favourite. With victories in prestigious races such as the King George and the US Grand National, he’s shown his ability to compete at the highest level. With great form and a preference for good ground, Hewick could be poised to make a significant impact at Aintree.
5. I Am Maximus
Odds: 12/1
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Paul Townend
Weight: 11st 12lb
The defending champion, I Am Maximus, returns to Aintree with the aim of defending his title. Though he’s had mixed results this season, including two runs behind Galopin Des Champs, he has ample time to recover and refocus before the Grand National. His previous victory at Aintree makes him a serious contender despite potential challenges.
6. Vanillier
Odds: 12/1
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Weight: 10st 6lb
Vanillier was a gutsy runner-up in the 2023 Grand National but struggled in last year’s race, finishing 14th. However, he enters the 2025 Grand National in better form and is expected to put up a strong performance. With improvements in his training and a more favourable build-up, he should not be overlooked.
7. Perceval Legallois
Odds: 12/1
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Weight: 10st 12lb
This talented horse has impressed with back-to-back wins at Leopardstown, including a significant Christmas handicap victory. Although his focus has been on hurdles to preserve his chase mark, his profile suggests that he is one to keep an eye on as the Grand National approaches.
8. Minella Cocooner
Odds: 20/1
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Jonathan Burke
Weight: 11st 2lb
Minella Cocooner, who finished third in last year’s Irish National, could thrive in the Grand National. With experience against tough competition and a solid pedigree, he might just have what it takes to compete at the highest level. A return to a big handicap race like the Grand National could be the perfect opportunity for him to shine.
Other Notable Runners
In addition to the frontrunners, several other horses could have a say in the outcome of the 2025 Grand National. These include:
9. Hyland
Odds: 20/1
Trainer: Nicky Henderson
Jockey: Nico De Boinville
Weight: 10st 6lb
Hyland is a promising young horse who has shown improvement, especially with his strong second-place finish at Kempton. A solid jumper with a preference for good ground, he could be a surprise contender if he continues his upward trajectory.
10. Meetingofthewaters
Odds: 22/1
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Weight: 10st 7lb
Meetingofthewaters ran well until fading in last year’s Grand National, ultimately finishing seventh. Though stamina could be an issue, he has had a quieter campaign this season and may have more to offer in the upcoming race.
11. Kandoo Kid
Odds: 22/1
Trainer: Paul Nicholls
Jockey: Harry Cobden
Weight: 10st 11lb
Kandoo Kid has shown impressive form, with a notable win in the Coral Gold Trophy and a strong third-place finish in the Topham. With his good weight and a quiet preparation, he could emerge as the standout performer among Paul Nicholls’ entries.
The 2025 Grand National – A Race to Remember
With a host of talented horses and intriguing stories, the 2025 Grand National promises to be a thrilling race. From defending champion I Am Maximus to rising stars like Stumptown and Iroko, the field is packed with contenders who could make history at Aintree. As the race day approaches, all eyes will be on these leading runners and the potential for another unforgettable edition of “the greatest steeplechase on the planet.”
