The world’s most famous horse race returns for another spectacular edition, as 34 runners and riders line-up around a gruelling four miles and two furlongs at the iconic Aintree racecourse in Liverpool.
Every year, this race attracts all sorts of bettors, whether they be those who always enjoy a flutter on a regular basis, or those who just bet on the National once a year.
As ever, the competitive nature of this race makes it hard to predict, so we have the latest sports betting facts for you ahead of the big event.
Have a read of our Grand National 2026 tips below, with the latest horse racing odds!
*All odds are correct at time of publication but subject to change, tipped horses may also become non-runners
History
The Grand National has an extremely rich and deep history, being first run back in 1839 and won by the aptly named Lottery. There have been some truly outstanding and memorable achievements to take place over the past 187 years. These include Red Rum’s hattrick of wins in the 1970s, Tiger Roll’s recent double, the rearranged 1997 National due to bomb threats at the course and the 2001 edition, where only four runners out of the original 40 finished due to high winds and heavy ground.
The longest-priced winner of the race has been 100/1 on five different occasions, the most recent being Mon Mome in 2009, whilst a whopping 66 runners went to post in 1929 as opposed to just 10 in 1883. George Stevens has been the most successful jockey with five wins, whilst George Dockeray, Fred Rimell and Ginger McCain (of Red Rum fame) have each won the race four times as trainers.
Will anyone else be able to etch themselves into history following this year’s renewal?
The Leading Contenders
Traditionally, this is the hardest betting race for punters year in, year out. The competitiveness of the race lends itself to a whole host of horses having live chances – and this time around is certainly no different.
Ireland have a very strong hand in this race, as does master trainer Willie Mullins. His I Am Maximus is this year’s favourite and is hoping to win for the second time following his victory in 2024, and his excellent second last year behind Nick Rockett, who has been ruled out for 2026. He has run well this season without winning, but the ground may be too lively for him.
Grangeclare West is another top contender for Mullins and his team. He was third last year following a blunder at the final fence but has been in good form once again this campaign. He won a Grade 3 last time out at Fairyhouse and a bold bid is predicted.
That brings us to our selection, Jagwar. He is a horse who brings a touch of class to the race and has won at the Cheltenham Festival before. He has a tendency to clout a fence, which is a big no-no here, but he has everything else in his favour to win. Cheekpieces have been added to help him concentrate and deliver better jumping, and he can power away at the finish to win this for his legendary owner, JP McManus.
Lively Outsiders
As we have alluded to already, plenty of big prices have won this race in the past – and there are loads of horses at a bigger price who can be in the mix at the end of the four miles.
We particularly like Spillane’s Tower at bigger odds. He won a Grade 2 at Cheltenham in January and, at the age of just eight, can improve further. He jumps really well and should enjoy the extended trip. He has that little bit of class needed to compete in this race and can trouble the leading lights.
Favori De Champdou is another who should enjoy this race. He has been in great form all year, including running really well over Cheltenham’s cross-country course, which is as close to this race as you can get. The only concern with him is how many races he has run and that might take the edge off, but he should go well.
Finally, at really big odds, Marble Sands has a squeak at about 100/1. He has run well on both starts this season, including a win over three-and-a-half miles at Cheltenham, so the trip should suit and he could provide some fun at a huge price.
Selection – JAGWAR – 10/1
Each-way – Spillane’s Tower – 26/1
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