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Chasing Glory: Top Jockeys Still Seeking Their First Grand National Win in 2025
Who will finally break their duck over Aintree’s iconic fences?
The Grand National is not just a race—it’s a legend. A marathon of endurance, courage, and split-second decisions, it represents the pinnacle of National Hunt racing for riders and trainers alike.
While a handful of jockeys have enjoyed the glory of winning the world’s most famous steeplechase, many of racing’s most talented names are still searching for that elusive first victory.
As the 2025 Randox Grand National approaches and the field begins to take shape, several top-class jockeys will head to Aintree with both strong chances and burning ambition. Whether rising stars or seasoned veterans, each of them dreams of etching their name into the annals of racing history.
Here, we take a closer look at some of the leading jockeys still seeking their first Grand National win – and assess their chances of finally reaching the Aintree summit.
Jonjo O’Neill Jr.: Family Legacy, Personal Ambition
Born into one of the most respected families in jump racing, Jonjo O’Neill Jr. has grown up immersed in the sport. His father, Jonjo O’Neill Snr., is a former Gold Cup-winning jockey and Grand National-winning trainer, and now it’s his son’s turn to chase a piece of Aintree history.
In 2025, O’Neill Jr. will partner Iroko, trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, and currently trading near the top of the market at around 8/1. Iroko is a classy individual, with form in top-level company and plenty of improvement to come.
It’s a major opportunity for the young rider—one that could see him become the latest in a family line of National legends.
Harry Cobden: Champion Jockey, Aintree Aspirant
Despite being the reigning British Champion Jockey and one of the most consistent riders in the weighing room, Harry Cobden has yet to make a serious impression in the Grand National. His best finish to date is 14th, and he’s had to rely on outside rides in recent renewals, including former winner Noble Yeats in 2024.
However, 2025 could mark a turning point. Cobden is the stable jockey for Paul Nicholls, who is expected to field multiple runners this year—potentially as many as five. After a hiatus from the race, Nicholls appears ready to return with a strong hand, giving Cobden a real chance of securing a high-profile mount.
Should he choose wisely, and with a bit of luck on the day, Cobden could finally get the Grand National monkey off his back.
Sam Twiston-Davies: A Chance to Continue the Family Tradition
Few families know the Grand National quite like the Twiston-Davies clan. Sam’s father, Nigel, trained two previous winners—Earth Summit (1998) and Bindaree (2002)—and remains one of the most experienced and respected trainers in the game.
Sam himself has never won the National, but 2025 could offer a golden opportunity. With Beauport and Broadway Boy both holding entries, the choice will likely fall to Sam, who knows each horse intimately. Both are long shots, hovering around 40/1, but in a race where fairy tales often come true, they cannot be dismissed.
Victory would mark a remarkable family treble, placing Sam alongside his father in the Grand National roll of honour.
Jack Kennedy: Time to Turn Promise into History
At just 25, Jack Kennedy has already packed a lifetime of achievement into his career—including a Cheltenham Gold Cup aboard Minella Indo and multiple Grade 1 wins. His career has been interrupted by injury, but his talent remains undeniable.
Kennedy has six Grand National rides under his belt, with a best finish of second aboard Delta Work. As the retained rider for Gordon Elliott, he’ll once again have the pick of a strong team. Elliott could send up to a dozen horses to Aintree this year, with Three Card Brag and Chemical Energy among the more fancied names.
With Elliott chasing a record-equalling fourth win in the race, Kennedy will likely be aboard a live contender—and may well be celebrating his own first triumph.
Others to Watch: De Boinville and Skelton Chase Elusive Honour
Two other prominent names in British jump racing are still awaiting a Grand National breakthrough: Nico de Boinvilleand Harry Skelton.
De Boinville, the go-to rider for Nicky Henderson, is best known for his exploits with stars like Constitution Hill, Shishkin and Altior. However, the Grand National remains a gap on both his and Henderson’s CVs. In 2025, de Boinville may partner Hyland, a lightly raced staying prospect. While not among the favourites, Hyland could be the type to take to Aintree’s unique test.
Skelton, meanwhile, is set to ride Threeunderthrufive for Paul Nicholls—a horse who stays well and jumps with precision. Although Dan Skelton does not have a runner this year, his brother Harry remains keen to make a statement in a race that has so far eluded him.
Final Thoughts: A Field Rich in Talent and Hunger
The Grand National has a long tradition of delivering fairytales—and there’s every chance that 2025 could produce another. From young talents like Jonjo O’Neill Jr. and Jack Kennedy, to seasoned professionals like Cobden, Twiston-Davies, Skelton, and de Boinville, several of racing’s biggest names are still chasing that elusive Aintree glory.
Whether it’s about continuing a family legacy, erasing past frustrations, or simply realising a lifelong dream, this year’s Grand National has all the ingredients to deliver drama, emotion, and history in the making. One thing is certain: for at least one top jockey, Saturday 5th April 2025 could mark the moment everything changes.
