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The Luckiest and Unluckiest Numbers in Grand National History (well, since 2000)
The Grand National is a race steeped in history, drama, and—if you believe in such things—a fair bit of luck. Every year, millions of people place bets on horses, with some punters poring over form guides, trainer stats, and weight allocations, while others simply pick a number that “feels lucky”.
But is there really such a thing as a lucky number in the Grand National? Or, more importantly, are there some numbers you should avoid like a dodgy tipster at the pub?
Well, after crunching the numbers from the last 23 Grand Nationals (and yes, there have only been 23 since the 2000 event, Covid19 forcing the cancellation of the 2020 Grand National), a few trends have emerged—some numbers have been remarkably consistent in finding the winners’ enclosure, while others seem destined to never sniff the top six, let alone the finishing post.
Let’s delve into the luckiest (and unluckiest) numbers in Grand National history, with just the right mix of serious stats and light-hearted superstition.
The Magic Range: Numbers 11 to 29
If you’re someone who likes to bet based on historical success, then you’d do well to stick between numbers 11 and 29. Over the last 23 Grand Nationals, a whopping 12 winners have come from this range, making it the most consistently successful bracket.
Why might this be? Well, it could be pure coincidence (always a possibility in a race as chaotic as the National), but it’s worth noting that many well-handicapped, lightly-weighted horses tend to fall into this bracket. These are often strong contenders, not carrying too much weight but still considered good enough to be competitive.
So, if you’re torn between lucky number 7 (which, let’s be honest, has been a bit of an underperformer in this race) and number 15, maybe lean towards the latter—history says you’ll have a better chance of celebrating.
Double Trouble: The Numbers That Have Won Twice
While no single number has absolutely dominated the Grand National over the last two decades, a few have enjoyed repeat successes. These are:
- Number 10
- Number 12
- Number 29
- Number 35
Each of these numbers has won the race twice in the last 23 years, making them your go-to if you believe in patterns and probability.
Number 12, in particular, stands out, given that it sits comfortably within that magical 11–29 range. Could it be due another victory? Only time will tell.
Meanwhile, number 29 is something of an enigma—it’s produced two winners despite being one of the highest numbers to have multiple successes. So, if you’re looking for a high-numbered horse to back, 29 might just be your lucky ticket.
Numbers to Avoid: The Grand National’s Biggest Underachievers
While some numbers have enjoyed repeated glory, others have been absolutely hopeless, managing to never finish in the top six, let alone win.
If you’re superstitious (or just like maximising your chances), then steer well clear of:
- Number 8
- Number 25
- Number 39
Yes, you read that right—not once in the past 23 years has a horse wearing these numbers finished in the top six.
It’s hard to explain why this is the case, but if you believe in curses, jinxes, or just plain old bad luck, then maybe give these numbers a wide berth.
That said, if number 8 romps home in the 2025 Grand National, you can bet some smug punter who ignored the stats will be claiming they always had a feeling about it.
The Nearly Number: 27’s Love Affair with 2nd Place
If Grand National success was measured purely by near-misses, then number 27 would be among the most famous numbers in racing history.
Incredibly, this number has finished second on four separate occasions—so if you’re after a good each-way bet, number 27 might be your best friend.
However, if you’re all about the win-only bet, it’s worth remembering that nobody remembers second place (except, of course, the punter who had it on the nose).
Will number 27 finally get its moment of glory in 2025? Or will it continue its trend of just missing out? Either way, it’s a number worth keeping an eye on.
The Stamina Kings: Numbers That Love to Finish
One of the most astonishing statistics from Grand National history is the sheer number of horses that fail to complete the race. Since 2000, 900 horses have set off from the starting line, but only 200 have crossed the finishing post.
That means, on average, only 22% of runners actually finish the race—so if your horse gets around at all, you’re already beating the odds.
Among all the numbers, one stands out as the most reliable finisher:
- Number 37 – Has completed the Grand National more times than any other number.
It doesn’t stop there, either. Numbers 10, 24, and 32 have each finished the race 10 times since 2000, proving that some numbers just seem to have a knack for survival.
If you’re looking for a horse that might at least get round, then these numbers could be the ones to watch.
Conclusion: Which Numbers Should You Pick?
If you’re basing your Grand National selections purely on historical data, here’s what you should do:
- For a winning chance – Stick to the 11–29 range, especially 12, 10, 29, or 35, which have each won twice.
- For a place bet – Consider number 27, the undisputed king of second place finishes.
- To at least finish the race – Look at number 37, 10, 24, or 32, which have all proven their stamina and reliability.
- To avoid disappointment – Steer clear of 8, 25, and 39, which have somehow never finished in the top six (since 2000).
Of course, racing is unpredictable, and numbers can only tell us so much. In the end, anything can happen in the Grand National—that’s what makes it the greatest steeplechase in the world.
So, whether you’re a serious racing analyst or just a once-a-year punter picking your favourite number, one thing is certain: April 5th, 2025, will once again deliver drama, excitement, and possibly a new lucky number to add to the list.
