Grand National pinstickers’ guide to runners

Grand National Pinstickers’ Guide to Runners

Saturday’s iconic Aintree event features 34 contenders for the 2026 Grand National. Here’s a breakdown of the key participants, including their trainers, jockeys, performance history, and potential. Note: Odds are approximate and may shift before the race. Three entries—number two (Nick Rockett), number seven (Spillane’s Tower), and number 35 (Pied Piper)—have been withdrawn.

Race Details

The 2026 Grand National takes place on Saturday, 11 April, at 16:00 BST. BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds will provide live commentary and analysis, while real-time updates for all races will be available on the BBC Sport platform.

Outsider to Watch

Quai de Bourbon has emerged as the top prospect for unexpected success, alongside Spanish Harlem, which poses a notable challenge to the favorites.

Key Contenders

Panic Attack (Trainer: Willie Mullins, Jockey: Paul Townend, Form: 82-925, Age: 10, Weight: 11-12) –

Gina: After claiming victory in 2024, this Aintree specialist finished second to Nick Rockett last year on quicker ground. With a mere one-pound increase in weight, he remains a strong contender this year.

Rating: 8/10, Odds: 7-1.

Grangeclare West (Trainer: Willie Mullins, Jockey: Patrick Mullins, Form: 5-8481, Age: 10, Weight: 11-10) –

John: This horse’s third-place finish last year was a close race, losing by just three lengths. A consistent performer at Grade One level, he’s shown class but needs to refine his tactics to succeed.

Rating: 7/10, Odds: 9-1.

Monty’s Star (Trainer: Joseph O’Brien, Jockey: JJ Slevin, Form: 7-4423, Age: 10, Weight: 11-11) –

Gina: A winner in 2024, Monty’s Star narrowly missed repeating that feat at Kempton this season. While he thrives on faster surfaces, doubts linger about his stamina over the demanding course.

Rating: 5/10, Odds: 50-1.

I Am Maximus (Trainer: Willie Mullins, Jockey: Brian Hayes, Form: 11PUP, Age: 8, Weight: 11-3) –

John: The Kerry National triumph earlier this season hints at his suitability for Aintree. However, his recent form suggests a sequence of letters in his name might confuse confidence in his consistency.

Rating: 5/10, Odds: 50-1.

Spanish Harlem (Trainer: Gordon Elliott, Jockey: Keith Donoghue, Form: 21246, Age: 8, Weight: 11-4) –

Gina: Despite his trainer’s past success in this race, Spanish Harlem’s lack of stamina over long distances raises concerns. His recent performances indicate he may struggle with the extended trip.

Rating: 5/10, Odds: 16-1.

Other Notables –

John: A consistent performer at Grade One level for two years, this horse’s only major victory came in a smaller race on New Year’s Eve 2023. His recent form behind Fact To File and Spillane’s Tower suggests he’s a contender, though his potential on softer ground remains a question mark.

Grangeclare West (Trainer: Willie Mullins, Jockey: Paul Townend, Form: 82-925, Age: 10, Weight: 11-12) –

Gina: Grangeclare West’s 2024 win and second-place finish to Nick Rockett last year highlight his track record. The slight weight adjustment this year could enhance his prospects.

Rating: 8/10, Odds: 7-1.

Spanish Harlem (Trainer: Gordon Elliott, Jockey: Jack Kennedy, Form: 3-P321, Age: 10, Weight: 11-10) –

John: His rapid development in the 2025-26 season, including victories in the Welsh Grand National and Denman Chase, positions him as a rising star. However, his soft-ground potential could be a game-changer.

Rating: 5/10, Odds: 14-1.

Form abbreviations: F – Fell, P – Pulled up, U – Unseated rider, S – Slipped up. Weight carried is listed as 11st 12lb for top weight, with other entries following similar notation.