2024 Grand National Runners & Odds | List of Confirmed Horses

Last Updated 1 min ago | By GrandNational.org.uk | Commercial content | 18+ | Play Responsibly | T&C Apply | Wagering

The new jumps season is now in full swing, with Corach Rambler clear favourite for the 2024 Grand National as jockey Derek Fox and trainer Lucinda Russell bid to make it two Grand National wins in a row. Last year’s National winner may have fallen short the big prize at the Cheltenham Festival, but his impressive third place finish in the Gold Cup was enough to convince many that he’ll be the one to beat at Aintree again.

As ever, we’ll have all the confirmed runners for Grand National 2024, alongside their jockeys, recent form and the latest Grand National odds, in our horse-by-horse guide.

(sponsored*)

Full list of 2024 Grand National runners, riders and odds

SORT BY:
  • Horse
  • Odds
  • Order
#1
Favourite

CORACH RAMBLER flag

Form: 411-53 / Weight: 11st 2lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Lucinda Russell
Last year's winner will return to Aintree to attempt to retain his title and emulate equine greats like Red Rum, Reynoldstown and most recently, Tiger Roll. That victory and his impressive performances at big meetings like Cheltenham show he can mix it up at the highest level of National Hunt racing. His two appearances in late 2023 could have been better, but Lucinda Russell has employed an almost identical plan to the one that led to last year's victory.
CORACH RAMBLER 6/1
#2

VANILLIER flag

Form: 2-5502 / Weight: 10st 8lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
This French-bred runner finished 2 1⁄4 lengths behind winner Corach Rambler in the 2023 Grand National. Trainer Gavin Cromwell and connections will hope he can go one better in this year's big race. His two appearances in December were not impressive, but that may be due to the shorter distances of those races. Stamina is clearly one of this 8-year-old's biggest strengths, as all his best runs have come at distances of 3m or more.
VANILLIER 12/1
#3

I AM MAXIMUS flag

Form: 1-1431 / Weight: 11st 2lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: W P Mullins
Powerhouse trainer Willie Mullins guided this McManus owned runner to victory in the 2023 Irish Grand National and will be aiming to do the same for the big race at Aintree this year. He backed up that landmark victory with a Grade 1 success at Fairyhouse in December, suggesting the preparation for Aintree is on track. This 8-year-old definitely has the ability to strike a blow in the 2024 Grand National.
I AM MAXIMUS 12/1
#4

MAHLER MISSION flag

Form: 12F-22 / Weight: 11st 1lb / Age: 8 / Trainer: John C McConnell
Trainer John McConnell confirmed in December that this season will be geared towards ensuring this 8-year-old produces the best performance possible at Aintree. A 2nd place finish in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury shows he has the ability to compete in big races, but the run itself also suggests he may lack the staying power to see out The Grand National trip. An appearance at Cheltenham is possible, and his performance there would indicate his chances of running well at Aintree.
MAHLER MISSION 16/1
#5

MEETINGOF THEWATERS flag

Form: 4311U / Weight: 10st 4lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
His victory in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown was highly impressive, finishing ahead of other potential Grand National entrants Panda Boy and James Du Berlais. A victory would be just the second for a 7-year-old in the Grand National since 1950, but if anyone can defy a historical trend, it's powerhouse trainer Willie Mullins. He's set to run at Cheltenham, and his performance at the festival will reveal how realistic his National chances are.
MEETING OF THE WATERS 16/1
#6

NOBLE YEATS flag

Form: 44-721 / Weight: 11st 8lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Emmet Mullins
This Irish runner should be well known to most Grand National bettors, having finished 4th last year and 1st in 2022. A noble display in a Grade 2 win at Cheltenham in January showed he still has a taste for racing. He showed grit and determination to keep ahead of the fast closing Paisley Park. If the preparations go well, he should be near the front of the Grand National field again this year.
NOBLE YEATS 16/1
#7

PANDA BOY flag

Form: 5-4424 / Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Martin Brassil
An impressive second-place finish in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown has raised hopes this 8-year-old could run well at Aintree. That run showed he has the stamina to get around the mammoth Grand National trip, but he ultimately finished behind fellow 2024 National entrant Meetingofthewaters. Martin Brassill guided outsider Numbersixvalverde to victory in the 2006 Grand National and could do the same with this runner.
PANDA BOY 18/1
#8

GALVIN flag

Form: 2U-854 / Weight: 10st 12lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
This Gordon Elliott trained ten-year-old will take on fellow Grand National entrants Minella Indo and Delta work in the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham in March. He has the ability needed to run well in the 2024 Grand National, and if he can put in a solid performance at the big festival in March, he looks a solid e/w shout.
GALVIN 20/1
#9

LIMERICK LACE flag

Form: 23-121 / Weight: 10st 4lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
LIMERICK LACE 25/1
#10

KITTY'S LIGHT flag

Form: 1-4705 / Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Christian Williams
The winner of the 2023 Scottish Grand National has the ability to run well in this year's big race. His performances in the second half of 2023 didn't match his impressive early-year results, but an extended break could see him return to his best form. Set to run in the Ultima at Cheltenham, his showing there will give considerable insight into how realistic his National chances are.
KITTY'S LIGHT 25/1
#11

CHEMICAL ENERGY flag

Form: 142P-6 / Weight: 10st 5lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
Gordan Elliot guided this 8-year-old to a superb set of results in 2022, including a victory over Mahler Mission, who is currently near the head of the market for the 2024 Grand National. His form in 2023 did not match the results of the previous campaign, but he shouldn't be totally dismissed. An extended break before travelling to Aintree could serve him well and see him return to the form shown in 2022.
CHEMICAL ENERGY 25/1
#12

MR INCREDIBLE flag

Form: B23U- / Weight: 10st 7lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
MR INCREDIBLE 25/1
#13

MINELLA INDO flag

Form: 1P-144 / Weight: 11st 2lbs / Age: 11 / Trainer: Henry de Bromhead
The favourite for the Cross Country Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, powerhouse trainer Henry De Bromhead has praised his form and expects him to run well. A positive performance there would indicate he could run well in the Grand National. De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore guided Minella Times to victory in the 2021 Grand National, and that partnership could guide this veteran to an impressive run in this year's edition.
MINELLA INDO 28/1
#14

CAPODANNO flag

Form: 3P-631 / Weight: 11st 4lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
It would be easy to dismiss this French-bred runner based on his showing in last year's grand national. However, his recent form suggests that performance could have been the exception, not the rule. His two most recent runs have been at distances over 3m, and he managed to place in the first and win the second. A significant positive from that win was his late stamina, keeping on well to claim the victory.
CAPODANNO 25/1
#15

LATENIGHTPASS flag

Form: 14-215 / Weight: 10st 6lbs / Age: 11 / Trainer: Dan Skelton
Trainer Dan Skelton indicated that he'd be tailoring this 11-year-old's campaign around the Grand National after he claimed the Glenfarclas Crystal Cup at Cheltenham in December. The veteran runner already has an Aintree win at The Grand National Festival, claiming the Foxhunters' Open Hunters' Chase in 2022. While he's spent most of his career in point-to-point contests, his recent wins show he has the class to challenge in this year's Grand National.
LATENIGHTPASS 33/1
#16

HEWICK flag

Form: F1-401 / Weight: 11st 12lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: John Joseph Hanlon
HEWICK 33/1
#17

THREEUNDER THRUFIVE flag

Form: 84-221 / Weight: 10st 13lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Paul Nicholls
A victory in February's Swinley Handicap Chase at Ascot has many people circling this 9-year-old as an E/W fancy for the Grand National. Trainer Paul Nicholls guided Neptune Collonges to victory in the 2012 National at a massive price of 33/1, showing he can get the best out of his horses. If this Gelding runs to his best ability, he could land a surprise blow.
THREE UNDER THRU FIVE 33/1
#18

DELTA WORK flag

Form: 1U-366 / Weight: 11st / Age: 11 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
.
DELTA WORK 33/1
#19

NASSALAM flag

Form: 07-411 / Weight: 11st 4lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Gary Moore
Two consecutive victories to end 2023 have many pundits fancying this French-born runner to perform in this year's Grand National. He has solid form at Aintree, he gave an excellent account of himself in the 2023 edition of the Grand Sefton, finishing fourth to the delight of E/W backers. His price is big enough to make him an outstanding E/W selection for the 2024 Grand National.
NASSALAM 40/1
#20

STATTLER flag

Form: 2P-624 / Weight: 11st 1lb / Age: 9 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
STATTLER 40/1
#21

CONFLATED flag

Form: P-53UU / Weight: 11st 9lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
CONFLATED 40/1
#22

COKO BEACH flag

Form: P-3121 / Weight: 11st 4lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
COKO BEACH 40/1
#23

AIN'T THAT A SHAME flag

Form: 10-9P1 / Weight: 10st 9lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Henry De Bromhead
AIN'T THAT A SHAME 40/1
#24

ANNUAL INVICTUS flag

Form: 186-41 / Weight: 9st 13lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Chris Gordon
ANNUAL INVICTUS 50/1
#25

MONBEG GENIUS flag

Form: 13-P35 / Weight: 10st 4lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Jonjo O'Neill
A foot abscess forced this highly touted runner to miss the Welsh Grand National in December, a real shame given he had a chance of challenging. His jumps career has been extremely impressive, winning 5 of 12 starts. The only real knock against him is the poor run at Ascot in November. He made big mistakes at two fences on the run-in and was pulled up as a result. He could be Jonjo O'Neill's best chance at winning the year's biggest race since he guided Don't Push It to victory in 2010.
MONBEG GENIUS 50/1
#26

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN flag

Form: P-5321 / Weight: 9st 6lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN 50/1
#27

GLENGOULY flag

Form: FP5-22 / Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
GLENGOULY 50/1
#28

LETSBECLEAR ABOUTIT flag

Form: -11333 / Weight: 10st 10lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
LETS BE CLEAR ABOUT IT 50/1
#29

DESERTMORE HOUSE flag

Form: 11843 / Weight: 10st 1lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Martin Brassil
DESERTMORE HOUSE 50/1
#30

GALIA DES LITEAUX flag

Form: 4-1224 / Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Dan Skelton
GALIA DES LITEAUX 50/1
#31

SHAKEM UP'ARRY flag

Form: 34-P61 / Weight: 10st / Age: 10 / Trainer: Ben Pauling
SHAKEM UP'ARRY 66/1
#32

MAC TOTTIE flag

Form: 31P-17 / Weight: 10st 5lbs / Age: 11 / Trainer: Peter Bowen
MAC TOTTIE 66/1
#33

ADAMANTLY CHOSEN flag

Form: 6P-407 / Weight: 10st 5lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
ADAMANTLY CHOSEN 66/1
#34

FAROUK D'ALENE flag

Form: 21FF52 / Weight: 10st 11lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
FAROUK D'ALENE 66/1
#35

JANIDIL flag

Form: 17F-23 / Weight: 11st 2lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
JANIDIL 66/1
#36

JAMES DU BERLAIS flag

Form: 43-443 / Weight: 10st 9lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
JAMES DU BERLAIS 66/1
#37

ASH TREE MEADOW flag

Form: 21141 / Weight: 11st 2lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
ASH TREE MEADOW 66/1
#38

RIAAN flag

Form: P-1442 / Weight: 9st 13lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
RIAAN 66/1
#39

FOXY JACKS flag

Form: 21P314 / Weight: 11st / Age: 10 / Trainer: M F Morris
FOXY JACKS 66/1
#40

ONTHEROPES flag

Form: 465/PP / Weight: 10st / Age: 10 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
ONTHEROPES 66/1
#41

AMIRITE flag

Form: U3P-45 / Weight: 9st 13lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Henry De Bromhead
AMIRITE 66/1
#42

MALINA GIRL flag

Form: 01F725 / Weight: 10st 2lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
MALINA GIRL 66/1
#43

FAMOUS BRIDGE flag

Form: 411PU / Weight: 9st 10lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Nicky Richards
FAMOUS BRIDGE 66/1
#44

LONGHOUSE POET flag

Form: 1U-95P / Weight: 10st 7lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Martin Brassil
LONGHOUSE POET 66/1
#45

THE GOFFER flag

Form: P4-858 / Weight: 10st 4lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
THE GOFFER 66/1
#46

SALVADOR ZIGGY flag

Form: -11127 / Weight: 10st 11lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
SALVADOR ZIGGY 66/1
#47

ANGELS DAWN flag

Form: 16-273 / Weight: 9st 13lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: S Curling
ANGELS DAWN 66/1
#48

ROI MAGE flag

Form: F27-16 / Weight: 10st 4lbs / Age: 12 / Trainer: Patrick Griffin
ROI MAGE 66/1
#49

MINELLA CROONER flag

Form: P-1P33 / Weight: 10st 6lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
MINELLA CROONER 80/1
#50

KINONDO KWETU flag

Form: 33-13P / Weight: 10st 1lb / Age: 8 / Trainer: Sam England
KINONDO KWETU 100/1
#51

FAKIR D'ALENE flag

Form: 4B23BP / Weight: 10st / Age: 9 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
FAKIR D'ALENE 100/1
#52

FIDDLERONTHEROOF flag

Form: 25/3P-P / Weight: 10st 2lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Jim Boyle
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF 100/1
#53

SAMCRO flag

Form: 111-13 / Weight: 9st 13lbs / Age: 12 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
SAMCRO 100/1
#54

ELDORADO ALLEN flag

Form: 54-345 / Weight: 10st 10lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Joe Tizzard
ELDORADO ALLEN 100/1
#55

RUN WILD FRED flag

Form: 3-59PB / Weight: 10st 6lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
RUN WILD FRED 100/1
#56

IRON BRIDGE flag

Form: 22-P23 / Weight: 9st 11lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Jonjo O'Neill
IRON BRIDGE 100/1
#57

CLASSIC GETAWAY flag

Form: 14-12P / Weight: 11st / Age: 8 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
CLASSIC GETAWAY 100/1
#58

CHAMBARD flag

Form: 4-21P8/ Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 12 / Trainer: Venetia Williams
CHAMBARD 100/1
#59

EKLAT DE RIRE flag

Form: P0/4-82 / Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Henry De Bromhead
EKLAT DE RIRE 100/1
#60

ASTERION FORLONGE flag

Form: 12-052/ Weight: 11st 1lb / Age: 10 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
ASTERION FORLONGE 100/1
#61

MISTER COFFEY flag

Form: 8-4263 / Weight: 9st 9lbs / Age: 9 / Trainer: Nicky Henderson
MISTER COFFEY 100/1
#62

GEVREY flag

Form: 3P1PP / Weight: 10st 3lbs / Age: 8 / Trainer: Gordon Elliott
GEVREY 100/1
#63

FANTASTIC LADY flag

Form: 023-5P / Weight: 10st 1lb / Age: 9 / Trainer: Nicky Henderson
FANTASTIC LADY 100/1
#64

EMPIRE STEEL flag

Form: 18-321 / Weight: 10st 2lbs / Age: 10 / Trainer: Sandy Thomson
EMPIRE STEEL 100/1
#65

BRONN flag

Form: 33-44P / Weight: 10st 8lbs / Age: 7 / Trainer: Willie Mullins
BRONN 100/1
SHOW MORE

*Odds are correct at time of publishing.

Grand National runners 2024 list

No sooner does the 2023 National end then the speculation begins over the confirmed Grand National 2024 runners and riders. Initially 94 horses have been entered into the 2024 race, with that number gradually dwindling following the Cheltenham Festival. The list will eventually be whittled down to the final confirmed Grand National horses that will run on 13rd April 2024, so keep track as the drama plays out.

A number of the horses that ran in 2023’s race are expected to renew their rivalries for the 2024 Grand National, most notably last year’s top two, Corach Rambler and Vanillier. You can find the leading contenders listed alphabetically below.

  1. Adamantly Chosen
  2. Ain’t That A Shame
  3. Amirite
  4. Angels Dawn
  5. Annual Invictus
  6. Ash Tree Meadow
  7. Asterion Forlonge
  8. Bronn
  9. Capodanno
  10. Chambard
  11. Chemical Energy
  12. Classic Getaway
  13. Coko Beach
  14. Conflated
  15. Corach Rambler
  16. Delta Work
  17. Desertmore House
  18. Eklat De Rire
  19. Eldorado Allen
  20. Empire Steel
  21. Fakir D’Alene
  22. Famous Bridge
  23. Fantastic Lady
  24. Farouk D’Alene
  25. Fiddlerontheroof
  26. Foxy Jacks
  27. Galia Des Liteaux
  28. Galvin
  29. Gevrey
  30. Glengouly
  31. Hewick
  32. I Am Maximus
  33. Iron Bridge
  34. James Du Berlais
  35. Janidil
  36. Kinondo Kwetu
  37. Kitty’s Light
  38. Latenightpass
  39. Letsbeclearaboutit
  40. Limerick Lace
  41. Longhouse Poet
  42. Mac Tottie
  43. Mahler Mission
  44. Malina Girl
  45. Meetingofthewaters
  46. Minella Crooner
  47. Minella Indo
  48. Mister Coffey
  49. Monbeg Genius
  50. Mr Incredible
  51. Nassalam
  52. Noble Yeats
  53. Ontheropes
  54. Panda Boy
  55. Riaan
  56. Roi Mage
  57. Run Wild Fred
  58. Salvador Ziggy
  59. Samcro
  60. Shakem Up’Arry
  61. Stattler
  62. The Goffer
  63. Threeunderthrufive
  64. Vanillier
  65. Where It All Began

View the 2024 Grand National betting odds here

*All Grand National odds correct at time of publishing, and subject to change.

Up to £50 in sports free bets - Money back as a free bet if any of your 1st 5 bets lose
Place 5x£10 Sportsbook bets on any Horse racing market at minimum odds of 2.0 (Evs), and get money back as a Free Bet if it loses. Max refund per qualifying bet is £10 (up to £50 in total). Only deposits made via Cards will be eligible for the promotion (Apple Pay excluded). T&Cs apply. Full T&Cs

Who are the favourites for Grand National 2024?

There are dozens of Grand National horses carrying the hopes of their owners and trainers, but invariably most interest and the big money surrounds the Grand National favourites. Here’s a brief Grand National horse-by-horse guide for some of the leading 2024 Grand National runners according to the latest Grand National odds:

Corach Rambler Grand National summary

  • Career highlights: 2022 & 2023 Ultima Handicap Chase winner and 2023 Grand National winner
  • Career prize money: £709,105
  • 2023 Grand National result: 1st
  • 2024 Grand National betting odds: 14/1 joint favourite

Mahler Mission Grand National summary

  • Career highlights: 2023 Coral Gold Cup runner-up
  • Career prize money: £122,156
  • 2023 Grand National result: Did not run
  • 2024 Grand National betting odds: 14/1 joint favourite

Monbeg Genius Grand National summary

  • Career highlights: 2023 Coral Gold Cup 3rd place
  • Career prize money: £81,143
  • 2023 Grand National result: Did not run
  • 2024 Grand National betting odds: 20/1

Vanillier Grand National summary

  • Career highlights: 2023 Grand National runner-up
  • Career prize money: £332,016
  • 2023 Grand National result: 2nd
  • 2024 Grand National betting odds: 16/1

Noble Yeats Grand National summary

  • Career highlights: 2022 Grand National winner and 2024 Cleeve Hurdle winner
  • Career prize money: £761,476
  • 2023 Grand National result: 4th
  • 2024 Grand National betting odds: 20/1

Kitty’s Light Grand National summary

  • Career highlights: 2023 Scottish Grand National winner and 2023 bet365 Gold Cup winner
  • Career prize money: £438,470
  • 2023 Grand National result: Did not run
  • 2024 Grand National betting odds: 25/1
Bet £10 & Get £30 in Free Bets for new customers at bet365.
Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Registration required. Full T&Cs

Previous Grand National winners

The 2023 Grand National went ahead in front of the usual packed stand, despite a slight delay after protestors attempted to make their way onto the track. The Grand National odds had Corach Rambler as the eventual favourite, while 2022 Grand National winner Noble Yeats went off as one of the top weights. Despite the gallant efforts of Noble Yeats to finish fourth, it was Corach Gambler who came home first. This secured a win for the same Lucinda Russell and Derek Fox partnership that combined to win with One For Arthur back in 2017. Here are the ten previous Grand National winners:

  • 2023 – Corach Rambler
  • 2022 – Noble Yeats
  • 2021 – Minella Times
  • 2020 – race cancelled
  • 2019 – Tiger Roll
  • 2018 – Tiger Roll
  • 2017 – One For Arthur
  • 2016 – Rule The World
  • 2015 – Many Clouds
  • 2014 – Pineau De Re
  • 2013 – Auroras Encore

Read more about how they got on via our Grand National reviews hub.

How are the Grand National runners decided?

In early February, a longlist containing around 100 potential Grand National runners is announced. As we near the 2024 Aintree Grand National, this is whittled down to a maximum of 34 Grand National runners. Narrowing down the field to 34 runners is a lengthy process, with the following steps and many twists and turns when it comes to the Grand National odds.

  • Grand National entries closed on 6th February, giving us a longlist of 94 Aintree Grand National runners.
  • Grand National weights are announced in mid-February, ranking the Grand National horses from one to 34 and beyond.
  • The first scratchings deadline is in early March.
  • The second scratchings come three weeks later, after the twists and turns of the Cheltenham Festival have all played out.
  • Five-day confirmations will be on 8th April 2024.
  • Final declarations will happen on Thursday 11th April at 10am, featuring the top 34 Grand National horses from the weights list.

Any withdrawals after the final confirmation stage will not be replaced, so it’s possible to use any Grand National free bets you’ve found, without much fear of not having a run for your money.

How many runners are in the Grand National 2024?

The Grand National has been capped at 40 horses for many years, but a decision has been taken to trim the field further, to a maximum of 34 Grand National horses. There are various declaration stages during February, March and April which also help whittle down the entries to the new 34 Grand National runners limit.

Bet £10 Get £30, Credited as 3 x £10 bets
18+. Play Safe. From 00:01 on 18.10.2022. £30 bonus. New customers only. Minimum £10 stake on odds of 1/2 (1.5) or greater on sportsbook (excluding Virtual markets). Further terms apply. #ad Full T&Cs

Who decides which horses run in the Grand National?

The 174th running will have Grand National weights released in February 2024 by the British Horseracing Authority’s head of handicapping. They decide the weights and ratings for the runners entered which will invariably end up being a deciding factor of which the final 34 runners will be on the day.

Once each horse has been allocated a weight to carry, we have a clearer idea which horses will be the confirmed Grand National runners for 2024. This has a significant impact on the 2024 Grand National betting odds.

Grand National entries 2024

As long as horses meet the criteria, there is essentially no limit to the number of initial entries. On the day, however, a total of 34 Grand National horses can run, a reduction on the previous maximum of 40.

As well as the official criteria, trainers and owners have to answer questions regarding their own horses. Will they stay the trip? Are they well handicapped? Is the ground suitable? Are they in good form?

Everyone involved has a balancing act to manage too. Those entered in the Grand National who are not jumping or staying well should not be involved. However, those in the form of their lives may have to put up with a very large racing weight given to them by the handicapper. All of these factors impact the Grand National betting odds.

Many horses are still considered to be contenders in 2024, these being some of the key stats:

  • Corach Rambler is the most recent winner, coming home over two lengths clear of a pair of greys in Vanillier and Gaillard Du Mesnil.
  • Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to win the Grand National (2021) and the Cheltenham Gold Cup (2022), so there’ll be a real interest in whoever she decides to ride. The 2023 Grand National saw a gamble on her mount, Aint That A Shame, on the eve of the race, but the money proved unwise as she was the last to complete the course.
  • Henry de Bromhead trained both the first and second placed horses at the 2021 Grand National.
  • Perennial leading owner JP McManus tasted Grand National success for the second time in 2021.
Bet £5, get £20 in free bets. Ker-ching
18+ New UK+IRE Customers only. Certain deposit methods & bet types excl. Min first £/€5 bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 to get 4x £/€5 free bets. Free bets available to use on selected sportsbook markets only. Free bets valid for 7 days, stake not returned. Restrictions + T&Cs apply. Full T&Cs

Grand National non-runners

After the official final declarations for the race take place, any horse that’s being pulled out is a ‘non-runner’. In this case, the final field was declared on Thursday, April 13th.

Historically, the Grand National has allowed ‘reserves’ to be called into the field to replace a non-runner. However, this system was discontinued for 2023, meaning the race took place with only 39 runners after the late withdrawal of Escaria Ten.

Horses are often pulled out for a number of reasons, a change in the ground or a veterinary issue being most likely. In 2023, these horses were among those pulled out after initially being declared:

  • Hewick
  • Conflated
  • Farclas
  • Death Duty

What to look for when finding a winning horse?

There are certain criteria for horses to meet in order to qualify for the Grand National. Understanding them means not only knowing who will run but often how well too.

Weight

As a handicap race, the weights for Grand National runners are basically decided according to their official rating. So, if the top horse is rated 170 and carries 11st 10lbs, a horse rated 167 would carry 11st 7lbs etc.

Given the special nature of this race, however, the head BHA handicapper has dispensation to change the ratings and the weights somewhat. The handicapper can use other factors such as proven form at Aintree to adjust the weights. He will frame the weights a couple of months before the race before publishing them.

The top-rated horse in the line-up will carry 11st 10lbs. In years gone by it was thought nigh impossible for horses to carry such weights to win the National. Things are different now. The classier horses at the top of the weights have every chance of winning this, especially if the ground isn’t too testing.

Age

Only those aged 7 and over can enter. This was raised from 6 recently, with Noble Yeats becoming the first horse aged younger than 8 to win the Grand National since 1940.

Horses between 8 and 11 are thought of as being at the perfect age. Even then, a lot will depend on what form they are in and whether it’s believed a new career peak is realistic regardless of how old they are.

Career

There isn’t a set career path for a Grand National contender. Race set-ups in the UK and Ireland are different but equally fruitful. The trick is not to follow horses coming from certain races. Rather, it is best to find a horse which is about to peak. Those running to their best form this season, but not necessarily badly weighted, are favoured.

Stamina

Only those who have been placed in a recognised chase over 3 miles or longer can enter. That is because of safety concerns, but as punters, we can take that a step further. In truth, what we really want to see is a horse who has won at least once over 3 miles. We’d rather see those wins being gained in good quality races too. Horses with the previous form in the Grand National, the Welsh and Irish Grand Nationals or over 3 miles at Cheltenham often go on to do well.

BET £10 GET £50 IN BONUSES
New customers only. Register (excl. 13/04/24) with WELCOME50. First bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get Free Bets: £20 In-Play, £20 Acca & 50 x £0.20 (£10) Free Spins on Fishin’ Frenzy within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply. Full T&Cs

Grand National Riders

The identity of a Grand National rider is important when deciding which horse to bet on. Some prefer to back a jockey that has previously won the Grand National, while others may prefer to back a female jockey, following Rachael Blackmore’s memorable win in 2021.

To be allowed to ride, jockeys must have ridden at least 15 winners under rules in Britain or Ireland. Ten of those wins need to have been over fences rather than hurdles too, so it’s clear that all 34 Grand National riders and runners will be more than competent at their trade.

Some jockeys are associated with certain stables or owners and will be retained to ride by them. In fact, the vast majority of winning riders can thank their retainers for a significant part in their Aintree wins.

However the Grand National jockeys get their mounts, this is a race that can make a career for them. Leighton Aspell managed to win this race twice in a row for two different trainer/owner combinations. The two greatest riders in recent years, AP McCoy and Ruby Walsh won this race only once and twice respectively.

The most successful jump jockeys from the past season were all be involved in the Grand National in 2023, so have a look at our Grand National riders list to see if any catch your eye.

  • Aidan Coleman
  • M P Walsh
  • Rachael Blackmore
  • Brendan Powell
  • D N Russell
  • P Townend
  • T Scudamore
  • Nick Scholfield
  • D A Jacob
  • Ryan Mania
  • Harry Skelton
  • Jonjo O’Neill Jr
  • Charlie Deutsch
  • Sam Twiston-Davies
  • Harry Cobden
GET £20 IN FREE BETS when you place a £5 bet on Sportsbook
New Customer offer. Place a min £5 bet on the Sportsbook on odds of min 1/2 (1.5), get £20 in Free Bets. Rewards valid for 30 days. SMS verification required. Only deposits via cards or Apple Pay will qualify. T&Cs apply. Please Gamble Responsibly Full T&Cs

2024 Grand National Key Facts and Figures

  • Winner’s Prize Money: £500,000
  • Total Runners: 39
  • Official Going: Good to Soft
  • Number of Hurdles: 30
  • Race Distance: 4 miles 2 furlongs 74 yards

2023 Grand National odds and result

  1. Corach Rambler 8/1 fav
  2. Vanillier 20/1
  3. Gaillard Du Mesnil 10/1
  4. Noble Yeats 10/1
  5. The Big Dog 12/1

Full 2023 Grand National Review

*All Grand National odds correct at time of publishing. All subject to change.

Grand National runners 2024 FAQ

Find more relevant information when it comes to runners in the National in our FAQs below.

Will the 2024 Grand National go ahead?

A combination of COVID related restrictions and animal rights protestors have threatened the running of the Grand National in recent years. The 2023 race went ahead with a short delay, and all the signs suggest the 2024 Grand National will also take place as scheduled.

When is the Grand National?

Grand National 2024 is scheduled for Saturday 13th April. The three-day festival gets going on 11th April, which is also when the final declarations are published for the Grand National.

Who are the runners in the 2024 Grand National?

The runners and riders will be confirmed closer to race day, although you can already bet on the likely contenders. Early favourites according to the Grand National betting include 2023 Grand National winner Corach Rambler, and the popular grey Vanillier, who came home as runner-up.

Who will win the Grand National 2024?

It’s tough to say at this stage, but Corach Rambler is prominent in the ante-post Grand National betting. He is undoubtedly be expected to carry more weight in the 2024 race though, so it may be better looking elsewhere for your Grand National bets.

Who won the last virtual Grand National?

The winner of the Virtual Grand National in 2022 was Snow Leopardess. There was no Virtual Grand National in 2023.

Can the virtual Grand National determine the real Aintree winner?

The Virtual Grand National was last successful in predicting the winner of the featured race in 2018. It successfully predicted that Tiger Roll would win the National. It failed to pick the correct winner in 2022, but did successfully call both the second and third-placed horses.

How many fences do the horses jump in the Grand National?

30 fences are taken by the field over a trip just short of 4¼ miles.

What time is the Grand National 2024?

The 2024 Grand National will start at 4pm, after the race was moved from later in the day to ensure the Aintree track is in the best possible condition for the 34 runners.

How many horses will run in the 2024 Grand National?

In previous years, up to 40 horses could run in the Grand National, but safety measures have seen that number reduced to just 34 horses.

Our Content

*We hope you enjoyed the selection bookies we recommended! Just to be clear, grandnational.org.uk may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.

You might also like…

GrandNational.org.uk

Our writers constantly update this site to ensure that you’re always fully informed of the latest Grand National news and runners.
18+ | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Advertising Disclosure
grandnational.org.uk is an independent professional comparison site supported by referral fees from the sites which are ranked on this site. The sites and information we present are from companies from which grandnational.org.uk receives compensation. This compensation may impact the rankings of the sites. Other factors, including our own opinions, your location, and the likelihood of signing up, may also impact how the ranking of the sites appears to a particular user. grandnational.org.uk cannot and does not present information about every betting/casino site or betting/casino site offer available.