Grand National 2026 Runners
Last Updated 10 hours ago | By Anthony VellaThe Cheltenham Festival is now behind us, which means the build up to the 2026 Grand National is well and truly on. Check out the Grand National 2026 runners list, alongside the latest betting odds and Grand National free bets.
Grand National Runners 2026 - List of horses and odds
*Grand National 2026 runners odds last updated at 7pm on 1st April 2026, and are subject to change.
Grand National Runners List
Speculation is swirling around the potential Grand National 2026 runners and riders, with fans and punters alike eager to see which names will return to Aintree for the world’s most famous steeplechase.
A total of 78 horses were entered initially, with the field gradually reduced as the season progresses and the race draws nearer. The Cheltenham Festival often plays a pivotal role in shaping the final declarations, before the official confirmation of 34 Grand National runners on the Wednesday ahead of race day.
A number of familiar faces from past renewals are expected to return, including former winners Nick Rockett and I Am Maximus, plus Grangeclare West and Iroko, who completed last year’s top four. The quartet all remain strong contenders in the ante-post betting markets.
You’ll be able to find the full list of confirmed 2026 Grand National horses once the declarations are announced. For now, the most likely Grand National 2026 runners are ordered alphabetically, below.
- Answer To Kayf
- Amirite
- Banbridge
- Beauport
- Blaze The Way
- Captain Cody
- Champ Kiely
- Favori De Champdou
- Final Orders
- Firefox
- French Dynamite
- Gerri Colombe
- Gorgeous Tom
- Grangeclare West
- Haiti Couleurs
- High Class Hero
- Hyland
- I Am Maximus
- Imperial Saint
- Iroko
- Jagwar
- Johnnywho
- Jordans
- Lecky Watson
- Marble Sands
- Monty’s Star
- Mr Vango
- Nick Rockett
- Now Is The Hour
- Oscar’s Brother
- Panic Attack
- Perceval Legallois
- Quai De Bourbon
- Spanish Harlem
- Spillane’s Tower
- Stellar Story
- The Real Whacker
- Three Card Brag
- Top Of The Bill
- Twig
Grand National 2026 Latest News
It can be hard to track all the twists and turns in the build up to the Grand National, so keep up to date with the latest Grand National news right here.
1st Apr 2026: L’Homme Presse ruled out of Grand National
L’Homme Presse was sadly ruled out of the Grand National after he was discovered to be lame. The 11 year old may have been proven a lively outsider, having previously won at the Cheltenham Festival and competed in the Gold Cup.
24th Mar 2026: Second scratchings stage sees 10 horses withdraw
Grey Dawning, Gentlemansgame, Search for Glory and Western Fold were amongst the most high profile Grand National withdrawals at the latest scratchings stage. The announcement means Panic Attack is now guaranteed a run, while Ultima winner Johnnywho is still waiting on two more horses to be pulled out.
17th Mar 2026: Nick Rockett qualifies for Grand National defence
Nick Rockett is now eligible to defend his Grand National crown after making his first appearance of the season, finishing third at Down Royal. His price has been cut to 20/1 as a result, while Gerri Colombe has also shortened after winning the race.
13th Mar 2026: Haiti Couleurs pulled up in Gold Cup
Haiti Couleurs’ hopes of winning the Grand National took a hit after he was pulled up in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He had been ante-post favourite for Aintree a few months ago, but can now be backed at 25/1.
11th Mar 2026: Final Orders impresses in Cheltenham Cross Country
Final Orders impressed when winning the Cross Country Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. With past winners like Tiger Roll and Delta Work going on to run well in the Grand National, his odds for Aintree have shortened from 100/1 to around 25/1.
10th Mar 2026: Johnnywho impresses in the Ultima
Johnnywho won the Ultima on day one of the Cheltenham Festival and immediately saw his Grand National odds slashed from 40/1 to 16/1. Strong performers in the Ultima have gone on to impress in the National in recent years, so it bodes well for his backers.
4th Mar 2026: Entry list down to 69 after first scratchings
A total of 69 horses remain after the first Grand National scratchings stage. Withdrawals include Mister Coffey – eighth in 2023 race – but all the favourites remain in the reckoning for now.
21st Feb 2026: Top two in Bobbyjo Chase shorten for National
The first two horses home in Fairyhouse’s Bobbyjo Chase have both seen their Grand National betting odds cut. Grangeclare West came home 5½ lengths clear on heavy ground, and was promptly trimmed from 25/1 to 12/1 for the Aintree showpiece. Runner-up Gerri Colombe has also shortened, in from 100/1 to just 33/1.
17th Feb 2026: Former winner I Am Maximus heads Grand National weights
I Am Maximus has been handed the top weight of 11 stones 12 pounds for the 2026 Grand National. The announcement was unsurprising and shouldn’t put off backers, given he came home second in 2025 off the same weight.
3rd Feb 2026: Grand National entries revealed – down on previous years
The entries for the Grand National have been released, confirming 78 horses for the 178th running of the famous race. While the quality of the field remains strong, entry numbers continue to fall, down from 90 in 2025 and more than 100 earlier in the decade. The reduction reflects a tighter handicap and a more selective approach from trainers, with the maximum field now capped at 34 runners for safety reasons.
16th Jan 2026: Change to running order announced for Grand National Day
Aintree Racecourse also confirmed a revised running order for Grand National Day from 2026. Racing will start earlier at 12.45pm, while the Randox Grand National will remain at its 4pm slot. The change ensures both Grade One races are run before the Grand National, with only the Grade Two Bumper following at 5pm.
16th Jan 2026: 72-Hour declarations introduced for Grand National
Aintree Racecourse has confirmed the Grand National will move to 72-hour declarations, with final entries made on the Wednesday before the race. The change is designed to provide earlier clarity and boost engagement, while the number of reserves will increase from four to six to help manage non-runners.
Who are the 2026 Grand National favourites?
There are dozens of Grand National horses carrying the hopes of their owners and trainers, but the most interest and the big money surrounds the Grand National favourites. Bookmakers have launched ante-post betting markets for April’s race, but with so many horses to pick from, here’s some brief information about the leading Grand National 2026 runners according to the latest ante-post betting odds:
I Am Maximus
- Age: 10
- Trainer: Willie Mullins
- Previous Grand National form: 1st in 2024 and 2nd in 2025.
- Best known for: Winning the Grand National in 2024 before finishing second a year later.
- Grand National 2026 best odds: 8/1 favourite
Grangeclare West
- Age: 10
- Trainer: Willie Mullins
- Previous Grand National Form: 3rd in 2025.
- Known For: Third place in 2025 Grand National and second place in 2025 Irish Gold Cup.
- Grand National 2026 Odds: 10/1
Iroko
- Age: 8
- Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero
- Previous Grand National Form: 4th in 2025
- Best known for: Winning Martin Pipe Conditional at 2023 Cheltenham Festival and coming home fourth in the National last year.
- Grand National 2026 best odds: 12/1
Haiti Couleurs
- Age: 9
- Trainer: Rebecca Curtis
- Previous Grand National Form: N/A
- Known For: Winning the 2025 Irish and Welsh Grand Nationals.
- Grand National 2026 Odds: 16/1
Nick Rockett
- Age: 9
- Trainer: Willie Mullins
- Previous Grand National Form: 1st in 2025
- Known For: Winning the 2025 Aintree Grand National.
- Grand National 2026 Odds: 20/1
*Odds displayed above correct at 7pm on 1st April 2026.
Grand National Runners with the same silks
You may have noticed some of this year’s Grand National runners will be wearing the same colours, which can make them harder to spot in a large and congested field. This is normally because they share the same owner. Our table below shows the horses that could share the same silks in 2026. You have to keep an extra close eye on these to make sure you don’t end up cheering for the wrong Grand National horse.
| Grand National runners | Grand National silks |
|---|---|
| I Am Maximus Jagwar Iroko Johnnywho Oscars Brother Spillane’s Tower Perceval Legallois |
Green & yellow |
| Stellar Story Favori de Champdou Quai de Bourbon Shanbally Kid Will Do |
Maroon & white |
Grey Grand National runners
Grey horses always prove popular in the Grand National. There were 7 grey runners to choose from in the 2025 race, but it looks as though that number is down for 2026, after Grey Dawning, Resplendent Grey and Gentlemansgame were all withdrawn. Grey backers still have hope though, while the horses below remain in the reckoning.
- Hyland
- Harry Des Ongrais
- Marble Sands
Previous Grand National Winners
The 2025 Grand National went ahead in front of the usual packed stands despite concerns that new safety measure may impact the drama. The Grand National odds had Iroko as the late favourite. Ultimately, it was Nick Rockett who powered through to win. He stayed on strongly to hold off 2024 winner I Am Maximus. Here are the ten previous Grand National winners:
- 2025 – Nick Rockett
- 2024 – I Am Maximus
- 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
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 potential Grand National runners is announced. As we near the 2026 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.
- This year, the Grand National entries closed on 3rd February, giving us a longlist of 78 horses. Previous years have seen this Grand National entries list stretch to in excess of 100 horses, so it’s significantly down on that number.
- The Grand National weights are then revealed in mid-February, ranking the Grand National horses from one to 34 and beyond.
- The first scratchings deadline was on the 4th of March, with the number of potential runners trimmed to 69.
- The second scratchings will come three weeks later, on or around 25th March, after the twists and turns of the Cheltenham Festival have all played out.
- Five-day confirmations will be announced on 6th April 2026.
- Final declarations have been moved 24 hours earlier for 2026, so are expected to be announced on Wednesday 8th April at 10am, featuring the top 34 Grand National horses from the weights list, plus 6 reserves in case of any late withdrawals.
Once the final declarations have been made, you’re safe to use any Grand National free bets you’ve found, without the fear of not getting a run for your money.
How many runners are in the Grand National?
The Grand National was capped at 40 runners for many years, but that was trimmed to 34 ahead of the 2024 Grand National. Various declaration stages during February, March, and April help whittle down the entries to meet the new Grand National runners limit.
Who decides which horses run in the Grand National?
The Grand National weights are released every February 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 in who 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 2026 runners. This has a significant impact on the Grand National betting odds.
Grand National Entries
While there’s no fixed limit on initial Grand National runners, only 34 horses are ultimately allowed to line up at Aintree on race day, down from the previous maximum of 40. To make the final cut, each horse must meet a set of official entry criteria, but the decision-making goes far beyond that.
Trainers and owners must carefully assess key questions. Can the horse stay the full 4¼-mile trip? Is it well handicapped? Will it handle the going? Is it peaking at the right time?
Form, fitness, and stamina all play crucial roles in whether a horse remains in contention for a Grand National start. Those showing top form could find themselves burdened with heavier weights from the handicapper, while others may fall short if they’re not jumping well or lack staying power.
All of these variables, namely the form, weight and ground conditions, feed directly into the latest Grand National betting odds, creating regular market movement as the field narrows and punters take their early positions.
Grand National Non Runners
Once the final declarations are made on the Wednesday before the Grand National, any horse withdrawn from the race is classed as a non-runner. For the 2026 Grand National, the declarations will be confirmed on Wednesday 8th April.
The race operates with a reserve system, where up to six standby horses, an increase on previous years, can be called into the final field if there are any late withdrawals before 1pm on Friday.
There are several reasons why a horse might be pulled from the Grand National after final declarations, with ground changes, veterinary concerns, or minor injuries amongst the causes. These late changes can also lead to fluctuations in the Grand National betting odds, so it’s always wise to keep an eye on the market in the days leading up to the big race.
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 Grand National horses 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.
Grand National Jockeys
When it comes to betting on the Grand National, jockey selection is just as important as form or pedigree. Some punters like to back riders who have already won at Aintree, while others are drawn to history-makers, such as Rachael Blackmore, who became the first female jockey to win the race in 2021.
To even qualify to ride in the Grand National, jockeys must have ridden a minimum of 15 winners under rules in Britain or Ireland. Crucially, at least 10 of those victories must be over fences, ensuring all 34 riders lining up in the Grand National are both experienced and highly capable.
Many jockeys are retained riders, contracted to ride for specific owners or stables. These long-term partnerships often prove fruitful. Most Grand National-winning jockeys owe their chances to these professional relationships.
Even legends like AP McCoy and Ruby Walsh, with their stellar careers, only won this iconic race once and twice, respectively, showing just how tough it is to claim victory at Aintree.
With Rachael Blackmore announcing her retirement, a new generation of stars will aim to leave their mark on Grand National 2026. Keep an eye on our complete list of confirmed Grand National jockeys and riders. You might just spot a name worth backing.
- Paul Townend
- Sean Bowen
- Aidan Coleman
- Brendan Powell
- Charlie Deutsch
- D A Jacob
- D N Russell
- Harry Cobden
- Harry Skelton
- Jonjo O’Neill Jr
- M P Walsh
- Nick Scholfield
- Ryan Mania
- Sam Twiston-Davies
- Tom Scudamore
Grand National Key Facts & Figures
- Winner’s Prize Money: £500,000
- Total Runners: 34
- Number of Hurdles: 30
- Race Distance: 4 miles 2 furlongs 74 yards
*All Grand National odds correct at time of publishing. All subject to change.
Grand National 2025 results and odds
The 2025 Grand National took place on 5th April at 4pm. Powerhouse trainer Willie Mullins dominated the contest. He trained the 2025 winner, Nick Rockett, plus the horses that finished 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 7th. That result shows just how dominant Mullins is at this moment in time.
| Position | Grand National runners | Grand National riders | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Nick Rockett | Patrick Mullins | 33/1 |
| 2nd | I Am Maximus | Paul Townend | 7/1 |
| 3rd | Grangeclare West | Brian Hayes | 33/1 |
| 4th | Iroko | Jonjo O’Neill Jr. | 13/2 Fav |
| 5th | Meetingofthewaters | Danny Mullins | 20/1 |
Grand National Runners FAQs
Find more relevant information when it comes to Grand National runners in our FAQs below.
When is the 2026 Grand National?
Grand National 2026 is scheduled for Saturday 11th April, at 4pm. The three-day festival starts on 9th April 2026.
What time is the Grand National 2026?
This year’s Grand National will start at 4pm. The race used to be earlier in the day but has been moved to a later time to ensure the Aintree track is in the best possible condition for the Grand National runners.
How many horses will run in the 2026 Grand National?
Up to 40 horses could run in the Grand National in previous years, but safety measures have reduced that number. The maximum number of Grand National runners is now limited to 34.
Who are the runners in the 2026 Grand National?
The 34 Grand National runners and riders are confirmed a couple of days before the race. The horses that will head to Aintree include 2024 Grand National winner I Am Maximus, and 2025 champion Nick Rockett.
Is Rachael Blackmore riding in the 2026 Grand National?
No, Rachael Blackmore announced her retirement and so will not be riding in Grand National 2026. This is a blow to Henry De Bromhead who trained Blackmore’s most recent mounts in the race.
Are there any grey horses in the 2026 Grand National?
There were a total of seven grey horses running in last year’s race, but there are likely to be just three grey runners in the 2026 Grand National, namely Hyland, Harry Des Ongrais and Marble Sands.
Who are the favourites for the 2026 Grand National?
The betting market remains very open, but I Am Maximus, Jagwar and Grangeclare West are currently the Grand National favourites for 2026. I Am Maximus is a former winner of the race, in before coming home second last year, while Grangeclare West finished in third place in 2025.
Who will win the Grand National?
It’s tough to say in a field of this size, but the horses high up in the ante-post Grand National betting are the most likely winners.
What was the best horse to win the Grand National?
Red Rum is generally seen as the best Grand National horse in history, having won the famous race on three occasions in the 1970’s. More recently, Tiger Roll won the race twice.
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