Grand National 2026 Horse-by-Horse Guide

Saturday, 11th April 2026, 4pm. Live Coverage on ITV1

 

There are horse races, and then there is the Grand National 2026—an entirely different beast altogether. Thirty-four runners, four-plus miles, fences that seem to have been designed by someone with a mischievous sense of humour, and enough drama to keep even the most casual observer glued to the television. This year’s renewal brings together proven champions, nearly horses, and a handful of hopefuls who might just spring a surprise.

Naturally, conversations around the race tend to drift towards bookmaker offers, and it would be remiss not to mention that Ladbrokes are currently promoting their Bet £5 Get £30 in free bets offer in front of punters like a carrot before a particularly enthusiastic donkey. Free bets and free betting incentives always add a bit of extra spice to proceedings, though picking the right horse remains, as ever, the tricky part.

Below is a detailed, reworked look at the first twelve contenders lining up for the Grand National 2026.

 

1) I Am Maximus (age 10, weight 11st 12lb)

The defending champion returns, carrying top weight and the burden of expectation. Last year, he proved his class with a commanding victory, and twelve months later he came agonisingly close to repeating the feat, battling on gamely before finally conceding late on.

What makes him particularly interesting this time around is that his recent form offers a touch more encouragement than it did heading into previous Nationals. A strong showing in a Grade One event followed by a respectable effort in the Irish Gold Cup suggests he remains in fine fettle. Still, history looms large—top weights have a habit of struggling in this race, and it has been decades since one managed to pull it off.

Aintree clearly suits him, though, and that alone keeps him firmly in the conversation. He may not dominate, but he is unlikely to fade without a fight.

Verdict: Strong each-way credentials thanks to proven course form, though top weight remains a stubborn obstacle.

 

2) Nick Rockett (9yo, 11st 11lb)

Last year’s hero returns under slightly different circumstances. The rules now demand recent activity to qualify, so he dutifully reappeared and put in a respectable effort behind a familiar rival. However, his absence for much of the season raises more than a few eyebrows.

There’s no questioning his ability when everything clicks. His previous triumph demonstrated both stamina and determination in abundance, and from a handicapping perspective, he is still well within striking distance. The slight increase in weight does little to dampen enthusiasm.

But—and it’s a sizeable but—fitness and readiness remain unknown quantities. Horses do not always return from long breaks firing on all cylinders, and in a race as unforgiving as this, any chink in the armour tends to be ruthlessly exposed.

Verdict: Well-treated on paper and capable of going close, but his interrupted preparation casts a lingering shadow.

 

3) Banbridge (10yo, 11st 11lb)

A horse of genuine class on his day, Banbridge boasts multiple top-level victories, including a prestigious mid-season success that stamped him as one of the better chasers around. He even came within touching distance of repeating that feat more recently.

However, consistency has never quite been his strongest suit. His performance at Cheltenham was underwhelming, to say the least, and that inconsistency makes him a difficult horse to trust in a race that demands reliability as much as brilliance.

The bigger issue, though, is stamina. The Grand National is not merely a test—it is an ordeal. And while Banbridge has excelled at shorter trips, there remains a significant question over whether he can see this marathon distance out effectively.

Verdict: Undeniable talent, but stamina doubts and patchy form make him a risky proposition.

 

4) Grangeclare West (10yo, 11st 10lb)

Here we have a runner who ticks several of the right boxes. A recent win in a recognised trial race has boosted confidence, and his third-place finish in last year’s National reads very well indeed.

He would arguably have finished even closer but for a costly mistake at the final fence—a moment that perhaps sums him up. There is ability in abundance, but his jumping can occasionally let him down at precisely the wrong time.

Carrying more weight this year adds another layer of difficulty, and while his experience of the course is a major plus, those small imperfections could prove decisive over such a demanding test.

Verdict: Solid credentials and proven stamina, though jumping frailties may resurface at a crucial moment.

 

5) Gerri Colombe (10yo, 11st 10lb)

Few in this field can match his record at the highest level. Multiple Grade One victories speak volumes, and at his peak, he has gone toe-to-toe with the very best.

Yet racing is rarely about past glories alone. His recent form suggests that while he remains competitive, he may not quite possess the same edge as before. A modest win in a small-field race does little to dispel that notion.

Stamina should not be an issue, and his experience is invaluable, but the presence of younger, upwardly mobile rivals makes life considerably tougher. In a race where improvement often trumps experience, he may find himself slightly outpaced when it matters most.

Verdict: High-class performer in his time, but others appear to have stronger momentum heading into this.

 

6) Haiti Couleurs (9yo, 11st 10lb)

A horse with a rather dramatic profile this season. His form figures resemble a rollercoaster—brilliant one day, nowhere the next. However, context is everything. His lesser efforts came in elite company, including a bold showing in the Cheltenham Gold Cup where he led for a long way.

At his best, he is a powerful, relentless galloper—exactly the type that tends to thrive at Aintree. His Welsh National success demonstrated his ability to handle both distance and testing conditions, and that alone commands respect.

The key question is which version turns up. If his trainer can coax him back to peak form once more, he becomes a serious contender. If not, he could just as easily struggle again.

Verdict: A strong, traditional stayer with plenty in his favour—provided he rebounds from his latest run.

 

7) Spillane’s Tower (8yo, 11st 8lb)

An intriguing contender from a smaller operation, and one that carries a touch of romantic appeal. His profile suggests improvement, and his age places him firmly in the sweet spot for National winners.

Connections have clearly been mindful of conditions, opting to avoid unsuitable ground earlier in the season. That careful planning could pay dividends, though it does leave a lingering question over whether he has been fully tested ahead of this assignment.

Stamina is the main concern. While he has shown plenty of promise, the final stretch of the National has undone many a hopeful, and there is a sense that this might stretch him just a little too far.

Verdict: Progressive and likeable, but the extreme distance may expose limitations late on.

 

8) Firefox (8yo, 11st 4lb)

Consistency is often a virtue, but in Firefox’s case, it comes with a caveat. He runs well more often than not, yet winning seems to elude him with frustrating regularity.

His step up in trip earlier this year hinted at improvement, but his subsequent effort suggested that stamina is not his strongest attribute. Fading late on in a major race is never an encouraging sign when stepping up even further in distance.

Receiving weight from some of the leading contenders is a positive, but whether that compensates for his apparent lack of staying power remains doubtful.

Verdict: Honest and reliable, but the extended trip looks a significant hurdle.

 

9) Monty’s Star (9yo, 11st 3lb)

A familiar story—consistently competitive at a high level without quite breaking through. He has flirted with top-level success on several occasions, suggesting ability is not in question.

His latest performance showed determination, though it also highlighted a tendency to expend energy early. That approach can be costly in a race where patience is often rewarded.

Handicap form offers mixed signals, and while he is not without hope, others appear to have greater scope for improvement. Everything would need to fall perfectly into place for him to feature prominently.

Verdict: Capable on his day, but lacks the upward trajectory of some key rivals.

 

10) Spanish Harlem (8yo, 11st 3lb)

At one point, he looked well positioned to make a significant impact this season, only for misfortune to intervene at a crucial moment. That incident hinted at untapped potential, but his subsequent run was deeply disappointing.

It is often said that one poor performance can be forgiven, but in a race of this magnitude, confidence is everything. Reproducing his earlier promise would put him in the mix, yet there is little recent evidence to support such optimism.

Even with a top trainer behind him, this feels like a tall order.

Verdict: Flashes of ability are there, but recent form leaves plenty to be desired.

 

11) Lecky Watson (8yo, 11st 2lb)

Once a horse of considerable promise, his recent trajectory has been rather less inspiring. A standout performance earlier in his career now feels like a distant memory, replaced by a sequence of underwhelming efforts.

Age is still on his side, which offers a glimmer of hope, but form is king in racing, and his current profile does not inspire confidence. Turning things around in a race as demanding as the National would require a dramatic resurgence.

Verdict: Needs a significant revival to feature, based on current form.

 

12) Champ Kiely (10yo, 11st 1lb)

A horse with notable achievements across both hurdles and fences, yet one who remains something of an enigma. His relatively light racing career suggests there could still be more to come, but his performances hint otherwise.

The primary concern is stamina. His effort in a recent major race suggested he was struggling towards the finish, and stepping up to the National trip only amplifies that concern.

While he is undoubtedly capable in the right conditions, this particular challenge does not appear ideally suited to his strengths.

Verdict: Talented but vulnerable over this extended distance.

 

13) Iroko (8yo, 11st 1lb)

There has been a noticeable shift in the balance of power this season, with British yards finally landing a few punches after years of taking them on the chin. Iroko forms part of that renewed charge and arrives with a profile that commands respect.

His previous visit to Aintree resulted in a solid fourth-place finish behind one of today’s principal contenders, suggesting both course suitability and the ability to cope with the unique demands of the race. On overall form, there is very little separating him from his stablemate Jagwar, which makes for an intriguing internal rivalry.

However, his most recent outing did not exactly scream “imminent winner.” It lacked the spark one would hope to see at this stage, and when margins are so fine, even a slight dip in form can make all the difference. Add in the fact he has had more runs over fences than his stable companion, and there is a sense he may already have shown most of what he has to offer.

Verdict: Strong claims based on past Aintree performance, though his latest run leaves a slight question mark.

 

14) Favori De Champdou (11yo, 11st 1lb)

Age is often treated with suspicion in this race, and recent history has not been kind to older runners. While there was once a golden spell for seasoned campaigners, the modern National appears to favour fresher legs and younger profiles.

That said, dismissing this runner outright would be unwise. He arrives in excellent form, having produced a shock victory at extravagant odds before backing it up with two admirable efforts over the unique cross-country course at Cheltenham.

There is also a tried-and-tested preparation route at play here, one that has previously yielded notable success for his connections. That alone lends a certain credibility to his chances, even if the statistics suggest otherwise.

Ultimately, he sits at the crossroads of trend and form—one pointing firmly against him, the other offering encouragement.

Verdict: Trends are firmly against him, but his preparation and current form demand respect.

 

15) Three Card Brag (9yo, 11st 0lb)

Consistency is his calling card, and in most races, that would be a valuable asset. Unfortunately, the Grand National is rarely won by horses who merely tick along without delivering something extra.

Last year’s effort told a familiar story. He travelled well for much of the race, only to fade when it truly mattered. That inability to see things through is a glaring concern, particularly given the increased weight he now carries.

To put it bluntly, he needs to improve just to maintain his previous level, and there is little evidence to suggest such improvement is imminent. In a field packed with progressive types, standing still is rarely good enough.

Verdict: Dependable but lacks the necessary progression; likely to blend into the pack.

 

16) Oscars Brother (8yo, 10st 13lb)

Every so often, a runner appears with a backstory that feels almost too neat, too perfectly scripted. Oscars Brother is one such case—a horse representing a small, tight-knit operation where family ties run as deep as ambition.

But beyond the narrative charm lies a horse of genuine potential. He is lightly raced, still improving, and his profile fits neatly into the mould of a modern National contender. His recent performance at a high level may not have been spectacular, but it was solid enough to suggest there is more to come.

The step up in distance could unlock further progress, and his relative inexperience may actually work in his favour, leaving room for improvement where others have already plateaued.

Verdict: A compelling mix of story and substance, with the profile of a horse capable of outrunning expectations.

 

17) Mr Vango (10yo, 10st 12lb)

There is something undeniably appealing about a strong stayer, particularly one who has built a reputation for relentless galloping. Mr Vango fits that description perfectly.

He narrowly missed out on a place in the race last year, which only adds to the sense of unfinished business. His previous performances have demonstrated stamina in abundance, and in the right conditions, he is capable of making life uncomfortable for many of his rivals.

However, conditions are key. He tends to perform best when the ground is softer, and without that, his effectiveness may be diminished. Additionally, his current mark ensures he carries a weight that could blunt his usual strengths.

Verdict: Admirable stayer who needs ideal conditions and may find the weight a limiting factor.

 

18) High Class Hero (9yo, 10st 11lb)

Not so long ago, this runner looked poised for a fruitful spell, with market confidence and early promise hinting at bigger things to come. Unfortunately, the trajectory since then has been decidedly downward.

Recent performances have raised more questions than answers, with consecutive non-completions suggesting issues that go beyond mere bad luck. Mistakes, fading efforts, and a general lack of fluency have become recurring themes.

Heading into a race that punishes even the smallest error, this is far from an ideal preparation. Without a dramatic turnaround, it is difficult to see him playing a significant role.

Verdict: Needs a complete reversal of form; current profile raises serious concerns.

 

19) Stellar Story (9yo, 10st 11lb)

A horse who has spent much of his career testing himself against strong opposition, often performing respectably without quite breaking through. That level of competition makes him tricky to assess in a handicap setting.

What stands out is his potential for improvement over longer distances. His pedigree and physical attributes suggest that this extended trip could bring out the best in him, and his current mark may underestimate his true ability.

He does not boast an eye-catching strike-rate, but the Grand National has a habit of rewarding those who quietly go about their business before stepping forward at the right moment.

Verdict: Not prolific, but potentially well treated if stamina brings improvement.

 

20) Beauport (10yo, 10st 11lb)

There has been a clear plan in place with this runner, with limited appearances suggesting that this race has been the target all along. Such preparation can often pay dividends—if the horse arrives in peak condition.

The concern here is that recent evidence does not point in that direction. His previous attempt in the National ended with him fading out of contention, and subsequent runs have done little to suggest a return to form is imminent.

Even allowing for the possibility that he has been trained with this specific race in mind, the lack of encouraging signs makes him difficult to support.

Verdict: Needs a significant resurgence; recent form offers little encouragement.

 

21) Captain Cody (8yo, 10st 10lb)

A winner of a major staying race as a novice, Captain Cody has already demonstrated both ability and stamina. That victory alone ensures he cannot be dismissed lightly.

However, progress since then has been limited. His performances this season have lacked the same spark, and an early exit in a key race earlier in the year raised doubts about his current level.

While he benefits from carrying less weight this time, his overall profile suggests he may be accurately assessed rather than favourably treated. In a race where improvement is often the deciding factor, that may leave him slightly exposed.

Verdict: Proven stamina but limited recent progress; others appear more favourably positioned.

 

22) Jagwar (7yo, 10st 10lb)

Youth, potential, and a workable weight—Jagwar ticks several important boxes. His recent performance at Cheltenham, where he finished well ahead of a key rival, marks him out as a horse on the rise.

With fewer runs over fences than many of his competitors, there is a sense that he has not yet reached his ceiling. That alone makes him particularly interesting in a race where improvement often trumps experience.

He is not without flaws—his jumping can be slightly untidy at times—but modern conditions tend to be more forgiving, and his overall profile remains highly appealing.

In many ways, he resembles the type of horse that has gone close in recent renewals, albeit with the added suggestion that he may still have more to offer.

Verdict: Progressive, well-weighted, and full of promise; fits the modern National mould very well.

 

23) Perceval Legallois (9yo, 10st 9lb)

Twelve months ago, he lined up with a degree of expectation, only for his race to end prematurely. Up to that point, his jumping had been sound, which makes the outcome all the more frustrating.

Since then, his campaign appears to have been geared towards another attempt, though his performances have not exactly inspired confidence. A pulled-up effort followed by a modest showing leaves him with questions to answer.

Returning to the scene of his previous disappointment could go one of two ways—either a chance for redemption or a repeat of past frustrations.

Verdict: Previously fancied but arrives in less convincing form this time around.

 

24) Gorgeous Tom (8yo, 10st 9lb)

In the modern era, even those further down the weights often arrive with credible chances, and Gorgeous Tom is a fine example. His age places him firmly within the ideal bracket, and his limited experience outside novice company suggests there may still be improvement to come.

A strong run in a competitive handicap earlier in the season adds weight to that argument, particularly as it was achieved despite a less-than-ideal start.

With a trainer well versed in preparing horses for major targets, there is every reason to believe he will arrive primed for this assignment.

Verdict: Progressive profile and solid preparation make him an intriguing contender.

 

25) The Real Whacker (10yo, 10st 9lb)

Once a top-class novice, he has struggled to maintain that level in subsequent seasons. His standout success now feels like a distant memory, overshadowed by a series of underwhelming performances.

Recent runs have been particularly concerning, with little to suggest a revival is imminent. The drop in weight reflects that decline rather than offering encouragement.

In a race that demands both form and resilience, he appears to be lacking in both departments at present.

Verdict: Former ability is clear, but current form points firmly in the opposite direction.

 

26) Quai De Bourbon (7yo, 10st 9lb)

The final member of a powerful stable’s contingent, Quai De Bourbon brings with him a single piece of form that catches the eye—a strong effort in a major staying race last season.

That performance suggests he has the raw ability to compete at this level, particularly given the improved terms on which he meets a key rival. However, his subsequent record is less convincing, with inconsistency creeping into his profile.

There have been signs of improvement more recently, aided by a change in equipment, but whether that is enough to propel him into contention remains uncertain.

Verdict: Capable on his day, but needs to rediscover his best form to make an impact.

 

27) Answer To Kayf (10yo, 10st 8lb)

There are horses that inspire confidence, and then there are those that come with a list of caveats long enough to require its own appendix. Answer To Kayf falls rather firmly into the latter category.

Stamina is not guaranteed, his preference for testing ground may not be met, and his jumping has a tendency to lack polish at precisely the wrong moments. While his effort in a recognised trial offered a glimpse of competitiveness, it also placed him behind several of today’s rivals without ever seriously threatening.

In a race that demands fluency, endurance, and adaptability, he appears to be juggling one too many uncertainties.

Verdict: Too many question marks across key areas to make a convincing case.

 

28) Jordans (7yo, 10st 8lb)

A younger contender with potential still bubbling beneath the surface, Jordans represents an interesting contrast to his more established stablemate. While lacking the same level of proven class, he may well be better suited to the demands of this particular race.

His performance at this meeting last year was notably strong, suggesting he handles the occasion and the track with ease. The step up in trip looks likely to play to his strengths, offering further encouragement.

That said, his most recent run was underwhelming, and there is a lingering sense that this challenge may have arrived just a touch too soon in his development. Time, as they say, is often a horse’s greatest ally.

Verdict: Promising profile and suitable conditions, though possibly a year away from peak effectiveness.

 

29) Final Orders (10yo, 10st 5lb)

Reinvention is not uncommon in racing, and Final Orders has found a new lease of life since switching disciplines. His success in cross-country company highlights both adaptability and stamina—two valuable assets in a race of this nature.

However, there is a subtle but important distinction. Cross-country races reward a certain type of specialist, often experienced and battle-hardened, whereas the modern National increasingly favours those with a touch more progression and pace.

With a lengthy career already behind him, he fits more comfortably into the former category than the latter. While he is clearly thriving in his current niche, translating that into success here is another matter entirely.

Verdict: In good heart but may struggle to match the pace of more progressive rivals.

 

30) Marble Sands (10yo, 10st 5lb)

Versatility is often admired, and Marble Sands certainly possesses it. Success over extended trips and respectable efforts on the Flat demonstrate a degree of adaptability that is not to be dismissed lightly.

Yet when it comes to the level required for a Grand National, versatility alone is rarely sufficient. His previous experience over these fences did not yield much encouragement, and while his stamina has improved, his overall jumping form still falls short of what is typically needed.

There is a sense that he arrives here as a participant rather than a genuine contender—a horse capable of completing but unlikely to trouble the leaders.

Verdict: Capable in varied conditions but lacks the necessary class for this level.

 

31) Panic Attack (10yo, 10st 5lb)

A mare with a notable achievement already under her belt, Panic Attack enters this race with both momentum and a touch of history against her. Female winners of the Grand National are exceedingly rare, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to her challenge.

Her recent performances have been impressive, particularly when stepping up in distance to claim a major handicap in convincing fashion. That effort suggested there may be more stamina in reserve than previously thought.

The question, as always, is whether that stamina extends far enough. The National is an altogether different test, pushing even the most resilient horses to their limits. If she does stay, she has the ability to make her presence felt.

Verdict: Strong credentials and progressive form, with stamina the key unknown.

 

32) Top Of The Bill (10yo, 10st 5lb)

There is no shortage of stamina here, and his effort in a recognised trial earlier this year confirmed that he is capable of grinding things out over long distances. Unfortunately, grinding alone rarely wins a race of this calibre.

His tendency to fall short when faced with stronger opposition is a recurring theme, and there are occasions where his enthusiasm appears to wane when conditions are less than ideal.

In a race likely to be run at a searching pace from the outset, he may simply find himself outpaced before stamina even becomes a factor.

Verdict: Genuine stayer but lacks the class and consistency to threaten.

 

33) Johnnywho (9yo, 10st 4lb)

A recent winner in a competitive handicap, Johnnywho arrives with form that demands attention. His performance at Cheltenham suggested a horse hitting his stride at precisely the right moment, and his current mark gives him a realistic chance of being competitive once again.

However, there is a lingering concern regarding stamina. His effort in a previous marathon test hinted that he may not quite see things through over this extreme distance, fading when it mattered most.

If he can conserve energy and deliver a more measured performance, he could go close. But that “if” carries considerable weight in a race such as this.

Verdict: Well handicapped and in form, though stamina remains a nagging doubt.

 

34) Twig (11yo, 10st 4lb)

Bringing the field to a close is a runner who has already tasted success over these famous fences, a victory that will undoubtedly count for something when the tapes go up.

Last year’s effort saw him finish ahead of several rivals, though still some way off the leading pack. While that experience is valuable, it does not necessarily translate into improved prospects this time around.

Age is also beginning to edge into the conversation, and while his previous win offers encouragement, the overall depth of this field suggests he may find himself outmatched once again.

Verdict: Proven over the course but unlikely to bridge the gap to the leading contenders.

 

From a Betting Perspective

As the excitement builds towards the Grand National 2026, many punters will also be weighing up the various bookmaker offers available, and one that’s hard to ignore comes from leading UK Bookmaker Ladbrokes, who are currently promoting a Bet £5 Get £30 in free bets deal for new customers. It’s the sort of offer that adds an extra dash of interest to the occasion—after all, if you’re going to take on a race as unpredictable as this, you might as well do it with a few extra chances in your back pocket.