The key details for the 2026 Grand National at Aintree are beginning to emerge, with a focus on runners, riders, trainers, and form.
Key Horses and Their Chances
I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, is targeting a second Grand National win. Gina notes that I Am Maximus won in 2024 before finishing second to Nick Rockett last year. The horse will be carrying a 1lb higher mark this year.
Grangeclare West, another Willie Mullins entry, will be ridden by Patrick Mullins. John mentions that Grangeclare West finished third last year, beaten by just three lengths, after being hampered at fence 25 and making a mistake at the last fence. He had moved to the lead ominously at the second last.
Jordans, trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy, has improved with every run this season. Gina notes that Jordans was second to Grangleclare West in the Bobbyjo Chase. He is a former winner of the Betfred Bowl.
Panic Attack, trained by Rebecca Curtis and ridden by Sean Bowen, had victories in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow and the Denman Chase at Newbury. John notes that Panic Attack was sent off as a 6-1 chance.
Non-Runners Declared
Three horses have been declared as non-runners for the race. Number two (Nick Rockett), number seven (Spillane’s Tower) and number 35 (Pied Piper) will not participate.
How to Follow the Race
Full race commentary and reaction will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. Live text coverage of all of Saturday’s races will be available on the BBC Sport website and app.
Approximate odds may change.