Grand National pinstickers’ guide to runners
Grand National pinstickers’ guide to runners
Race Details
The 2026 Grand National will take place on Saturday, April 11, at Aintree. The event begins at 16:00 BST, offering a mix of excitement and unpredictability for fans. Live updates, including race commentary and reactions, will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, with real-time text coverage on the BBC Sport website and app.
Key Factors to Consider
Understanding the contenders, their riders, trainers, and form is crucial for predicting the outcome. The 34 entrants include a blend of seasoned performers and emerging talents. However, three horses—Nick Rockett, Spillane’s Tower, and Pied Piper—have been withdrawn from the competition, leaving a dynamic lineup to be evaluated.
Best Outsiders
Quai de Bourbon and Spanish Harlem are highlighted as potential dark horses. Quai de Bourbon, the first outsider, has shown promise in recent outings, while Spanish Harlem aims to capitalize on its improved performance. I Am Maximus, a notable contender, is also expected to challenge for victory.
Contender Analysis
I Am Maximus Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) Jockey: Paul Townend Form: 82-925 Age: 10 Weight: 11-12
Gina notes that the horse won in 2024 before running equally well to finish second to stablemate Nick Rockett last year on faster ground. The Willie Mullins-trained Aintree specialist must have another excellent chance this year, off just a 1lb higher mark.
Rating: 8/10 Odds: 7-1
Panic Attack Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) Jockey: Patrick Mullins Form: 5-8481 Age: 10 Weight: 11-10
John highlights that the horse finished third last year, beaten by just three lengths. An excellent effort by a horse who has always had a touch of class. It wasn’t all smooth sailing 12 months ago as he was hampered at fence 25 (Valentines Brook) and then made a mistake of his own creation at the last fence.
Rating: 7/10 Odds: 9-1
Grangeclare West Trainer: Gordon Elliott (IRE) Jockey: Jack Kennedy Form: 3-P321 Age: 10 Weight: 11-10
Gina observes that the horse returned from a long absence at the start of the season and has improved with every run, notably when finishing second to the well-fancied Grangleclare West in Ireland’s renowned Grand National trial, the Bobbyjo Chase.
Rating: 6/10 Odds: 25-1
Monty’s Star Trainer: Joseph O’Brien (IRE) Jockey: JJ Slevin Form: 7-4423 Age: 10 Weight: 11-11
John remarks that the horse firmly established itself as one of the stars of the 2025-26 season with fabulous victories in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow and the Denman Chase at Newbury. His rapid development last month saw him sent off as a 6-1 chance for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, though the drying ground ultimately hindered his performance.
Rating: 5/10 Odds: 14-1
Fact To File Trainer: Henry de Bromhead (IRE) Jockey: Darragh O’Keeffe Form: 4-3056 Age: 9 Weight: 11-3
John points out that the horse has been a regular performer at the Grade One level for the past two years, but its only win over fences came on New Year’s Eve 2023. While it can be fancied against rivals like Spillane’s Tower, its recent form may not match its earlier potential.
Rating: 5/10 Odds: 16-1
Quai de Bourbon Trainer: Rebecca Curtis Jockey: Sean Bowen Form: 1P11P Age: 9 Weight: 11-10
Gina mentions that the horse has shown consistent form in recent races, making it a strong candidate for a surprise finish. Its weight and surface conditions could play a pivotal role in determining its success.
Rating: 5/10 (growing to 7/10 on soft ground) Odds: 50-1
Form codes: F = Fell, P = Pulled up, U = Unseated rider, S = Slipped up.