The 2026 Randox Grand National: A Preview of Aintree’s Showpiece
The excitement is palpable as the world’s greatest steeplechase approaches once again! The Weekend Winners team is back to provide an in-depth preview of the 2026 Randox Grand National, where a maximum field of 34 runners will compete for glory at Aintree. With the race just around the corner, let’s dive into the top contenders and expert opinions.
The Favorites
Leading the charge is I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner, who is once again favored in the betting market. Trained by the renowned Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, this horse has proven his mettle on the big stage. Following closely are the Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack, last year’s third-place finisher Grangeclare West, and the promising horses Jagwar, Johnnywho, and Iroko.
Declan Rix’s Selections
Imperial Saint
Declan Rix has a soft spot for Imperial Saint, citing his impressive course form, particularly on the Mildmay course. “He really came alive in a competitive handicap at this meeting last year,” Rix notes. He believes that the horse is well-suited for the marathon trip of the Grand National and is currently undervalued in the betting market.
Johnnywho
Next up is Johnnywho, who clinched victory in the Ultima at the Cheltenham Festival. Rix emphasizes the strong historical performance of Ultima winners in the Grand National, referencing Corach Rambler, who won the race a few years back. With the addition of cheekpieces that sharpened Johnnywho’s focus, Rix is optimistic about his chances, especially given his favorable weight.
Iroko
To complete his picks, Rix has chosen Iroko, who performed admirably in last year’s Grand National. Despite a disappointing run in the Ultima at Cheltenham, Rix believes that a recent wind operation has improved Iroko’s performance. “He could be bang there,” he asserts.
Declan’s 1-2-3:
- Imperial Saint
- Johnnywho
- Iroko
Kate Tracey’s Insights
Johnnywho
Host Kate Tracey shares her insights, emphasizing the importance of trends in predicting the Grand National winner. She is particularly confident in Johnnywho, who ticks many of the right boxes according to her analysis.
Final Orders
Her second pick is Final Orders, who, despite being two years older than the typical winner, boasts an ideal rating and weight. Having recently won at Cheltenham in the Cross Country, Tracey believes he will be competitive without leading the pack.
Spanish Harlem
Rounding off her selections is Spanish Harlem, a horse that may not fit the traditional mold but offers great value at a long price. Despite a recent pull-up, Tracey sees potential in his prominent racing style, which could be advantageous in the Grand National.
Kate’s 1-2-3:
- Johnnywho
- Final Orders
- Spanish Harlem
Sam Boswell’s Picks
Monty’s Star
Sam Boswell kicks off his selections with Monty’s Star, who has been competing at a high level despite not winning since December 2023. Boswell notes that the horse’s last performance at the Dublin Racing Festival was commendable, and he believes that trainer Henry de Bromhead has a strong record in the Grand National.
Oscar’s Brother
Next, Boswell highlights Oscar’s Brother, a horse with a compelling backstory. Owned by JP McManus and trained by Connor King, this horse has shown significant improvement in his recent outings. Boswell is optimistic that the step up in trip could enhance Oscar’s Brother’s performance.
Captain Cody
Finally, Boswell rounds out his picks with Captain Cody, who has been specifically targeted for this race since his last outing in the Scottish National. “He should relish the trip,” Boswell states, emphasizing the importance of getting into a rhythm early on.
Sam’s 1-2-3:
- Monty’s Star
- Oscar’s Brother
- Captain Cody
As the anticipation builds for the 2026 Randox Grand National, the insights from Declan Rix, Kate Tracey, and Sam Boswell provide a fascinating glimpse into the potential contenders. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, this year’s race promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
