Trainer Willie Mullins leads a strong lineup for Aintree's iconic race following the withdrawal of last year's winner Nick Rockett.
Category: Sports
The 2026 Randox Grand National is set to take place on Saturday, April 11, with a maximum field of 34 horses confirmed, following a series of dramatic withdrawals that have reshaped the lineup for this iconic race at Aintree.
Defending champion Nick Rockett, who was expected to wear number two, has been withdrawn from the race due to a cough, leaving his trainer Willie Mullins heartbroken. Mullins, who has seen his son Patrick ride Rockett to victory last year, expressed his disappointment over the sudden turn of events. "It’s heartbreaking for Tom Bellamy, who was chosen for the ride after Patrick was set to ride Grangeclare West," Mullins said.
Rockett's withdrawal has opened the door for Imperial Saint, the second reserve, to take his place in the race. The horse, trained by Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, will now compete alongside several other strong contenders, including the likes of Amirite, who is stepping in as the third reserve after Spillane’s Tower also pulled out.
Among the leading contenders, I Am Maximus stands out. This seasoned competitor, trained by Mullins, won the Grand National in 2024 and finished a strong second to Rockett last year. Now at ten years old, he carries top weight of 11st 12lb and is currently the favorite with odds of 7-1. Mullins believes I Am Maximus has a solid chance to reclaim the title, especially considering his impressive track record.
Grangeclare West, another of Mullins’ entries, is also a strong contender. Having finished third in last year’s race, he recently won the Bobbyjo Chase, a recognized trial for the Grand National. His current odds are 9-1, and he is rated 7/10 by analysts. Mullins’ other entries include Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, and High Class Hero, all of whom could potentially make an impact on the race.
Another standout is Panic Attack, a ten-year-old mare who has been in sensational form. She has won both the Paddy Power Gold Cup and the Coral Gold Cup, and many believe she could be a dark horse in the race. With a weight of 10st 5lb, her confidence and jumping ability could prove decisive.
Other notable contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, and Haiti Couleurs. Banbridge, trained by Joseph O’Brien, has been a consistent performer and is known for his speed, but there are concerns about his stamina over the Grand National distance. Gerri Colombe, trained by Gordon Elliott, has shown class in previous races, including a second place in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and is regarded as a serious contender.
Haiti Couleurs aims to make history by becoming the first horse to win the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. His recent victories in the Welsh Grand National and Denman Chase highlight his potential, though he may be affected by ground conditions.
With a prize purse of £500,000 for the winner, the stakes are high, and the competition fierce. The last-minute changes to the lineup have only added to the excitement surrounding the event, with many fans eager to see how the new entrants will perform.
As the race day approaches, the final field will be confirmed by 1pm BST on April 10, allowing for any last-minute changes. The Grand National remains one of the most anticipated events in the horse racing calendar, drawing spectators from around the world.
Each horse in the lineup has a unique story, and the race itself is steeped in history. The Grand National was first run in 1839, and over the years, it has become a showcase for the best in horse racing. This year’s edition no different, with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars vying for glory.
As fans prepare for the race, many are already placing their bets, considering the strengths and weaknesses of each horse. The Grand National is not just about speed; it requires skill, strategy, and a bit of luck to navigate the challenging course.
In the lead-up to the race, excitement is building, with broadcasters and analysts sharing insights and predictions. John Hunt and Gina Bryce from BBC Radio 5 Live have both provided their predictions, naming Panic Attack and Grangeclare West among their top picks.
As the countdown to the Grand National continues, it how the newly adjusted field will compete. With each horse bringing its own unique strengths and challenges to the race, fans and participants alike are bracing for what a thrilling contest.
In the words of broadcaster Matt Chapman, the last 24 hours have been "insane" with the unexpected withdrawals and changes, setting the stage for a memorable Grand National. Will I Am Maximus reclaim his title, or will a new champion emerge from the pack? as they charge down the famous Aintree course on Saturday.