The Grand National remains the most anticipated event in the horse racing calendar. As we approach the 2026 edition at Aintree, fans and bettors are closely monitoring the grand national runners 2026 List to identify potential winners. Whether you are looking for a printable guide or the latest odds, this comprehensive breakdown provides everything you need to stay informed.
Latest News and Aintree Strategy Guide
The Mullins Dynasty and Title Contenders
Trainer Willie Mullins continues to dominate the landscape. This year, his stable features two heavyweight champions:
- I Am Maximus (2024 Winner): Currently the 15/2 favorite. Even with a top weight of 11st 12lb, his form remains elite.
- Nick Rockett (2025 Winner): He is attempting to make history as only the sixth horse ever to win back-to-back Grand Nationals.
Understanding the 34-Runner Limit
If you are used to the traditional 40-horse field, you will notice a change. Since 2024, the field was capped at 34 runners to reduce congestion at the first fence. Additionally, the first fence was moved 60 yards closer to the start to ensure horses approach the jump at a safer, more controlled speed.
Weather and Track Conditions (The “Going”)
As of April 7, 2026, the ground is reported as Good to Soft. While the midweek forecast suggests dry weather up to 19°C, showers are expected on Friday and Saturday. For those studying the runners list, remember that horses like I Am Maximus and Grangeclare West typically perform better on softer ground.
Official Grand National Runners 2026 List & Odds
This list represents the top 34 horses currently qualified for the race. Final confirmation of the field is solidified 48 hours before the event.
| No. | Horse Name | Trainer | Weight | Current Odds |
| 1 | I Am Maximus | Willie Mullins | 11st 12lb | 15/2 (Fav) |
| 2 | Nick Rockett | Willie Mullins | 11st 11lb | 16/1 |
| 3 | Banbridge | Joseph O’Brien | 11st 11lb | 28/1 |
| 4 | Grangeclare West | Willie Mullins | 11st 10lb | 10/1 |
| 5 | Gerri Colombe | Gordon Elliott | 11st 10lb | 33/1 |
| 6 | Haiti Couleurs | Rebecca Curtis | 11st 10lb | 16/1 |
| 7 | Spillane’s Tower | Jimmy Mangan | 11st 7lb | 50/1 |
| 8 | Firefox | Gordon Elliott | 11st 4lb | 100/1 |
| 9 | Monty’s Star | Henry de Bromhead | 11st 3lb | 20/1 |
| 10 | Spanish Harlem | Willie Mullins | 11st 3lb | 40/1 |
| 11 | Lecky Watson | Willie Mullins | 11st 2lb | 50/1 |
| 12 | Champ Kiely | Willie Mullins | 11st 1lb | 80/1 |
| 13 | Iroko | Oliver Greenall | 11st 1lb | 14/1 |
| 14 | Favori De Champdou | Gordon Elliott | 11st 1lb | 33/1 |
| 15 | Three Card Brag | Gordon Elliott | 11st 0lb | 66/1 |
| 16 | Oscars Brother | Conor King | 10st 13lb | 20/1 |
| 17 | Mr Vango | Sara Bradstock | 10st 12lb | 80/1 |
| 18 | High Class Hero | Willie Mullins | 10st 11lb | 80/1 |
| 19 | Stellar Story | Gordon Elliott | 10st 11lb | 25/1 |
| 20 | Beauport | Nigel Twiston-Davies | 10st 11lb | 125/1 |
| 21 | Captain Cody | Willie Mullins | 10st 10lb | 20/1 |
| 22 | Jagwar | Oliver Greenall | 10st 10lb | 12/1 |
| 23 | Perceval Legallois | Gavin Cromwell | 10st 9lb | 40/1 |
| 24 | Gorgeous Tom | Henry de Bromhead | 10st 9lb | 33/1 |
| 25 | The Real Whacker | Patrick Neville | 10st 9lb | 100/1 |
| 26 | Quai De Bourbon | Willie Mullins | 10st 9lb | 33/1 |
| 27 | Answer To Kayf | Terence O’Brien | 10st 8lb | 66/1 |
| 28 | Jordans | Joseph O’Brien | 10st 8lb | 28/1 |
| 29 | Final Orders | Gavin Cromwell | 10st 5lb | 25/1 |
| 30 | Marble Sands | David Killahena | 10st 5lb | 125/1 |
| 31 | Panic Attack | Dan Skelton | 10st 5lb | 20/1 |
| 32 | Top Of The Bill | Nigel Twiston-Davies | 10st 5lb | 125/1 |
| 33 | Johnnywho | Jonjo O’Neill | 10st 4lb | 16/1 |
| 34 | Twig | Ben Pauling | 10st 4lb | 66/1 |
The Mullins Dynasty and Title Contenders
Trainer Willie Mullins continues to dominate the landscape. This year, his stable features two heavyweight champions:
- I Am Maximus (2024 Winner): Currently the 15/2 favorite. Even with a top weight of 11st 12lb, his form remains elite.
- Nick Rockett (2025 Winner): He is attempting to make history as only the sixth horse ever to win back-to-back Grand Nationals.
Key Insights for Fans and Devotees
The “Reserve” System
It is important to note that horses ranked 35 or lower, such as Pied Piper or Amirite, are currently on the reserve list. These horses can only participate if one of the top 34 runners is withdrawn before the Friday deadline.
The JP McManus Factor
Legendary owner JP McManus is chasing his 4th victory this year. He has a strong presence in the grand national runners 2026 List, with contenders like Iroko, Jagwar, and the favorite, I Am Maximus.
Major Non-Runners
Stay updated on notable withdrawals to avoid backing a horse that isn’t competing. Recently, L’Homme Presse was scratched due to a minor injury, and Spillane’s Tower is expected to skip the Saturday race to compete in an earlier event.





