Grand National 2026: Complete Line-Up of 34 Horses Finalised for Aintree Spectacle
The field for the 2026 Randox Grand National has been officially confirmed, with the maximum permitted number of 34 horses declared for the prestigious event at Aintree. This £1 million world-famous race, scheduled for Saturday, will be broadcast live on ITV, attracting millions of viewers globally.
Top Contenders and Key Runners in the Spotlight
Leading the charge is I Am Maximus, owned by JP McManus and trained by Willie Mullins. As the 2024 winner and last year's runner-up, this horse carries the top weight and is expected to be ridden by Paul Townend. He faces a highly anticipated rematch with stablemate Nick Rockett, who secured second place in 2025 under amateur jockey Patrick Mullins, with Grangeclare West completing a remarkable 1-2-3 for the Mullins stable.
Willie Mullins, who had nine horses engaged earlier in the week, has declared all of them. A notable surprise entry is Spillane's Tower, also slated for the Bowl at Aintree on Thursday. Other leading contenders include Grangeclare West, the Dan Skelton-trained mare Panic Attack, last year's fourth-place finisher Iroko, and Jagwar—two additional McManus-owned horses trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero.
Historic Milestones and Trainer Achievements
Should Willie Mullins secure victory, he will equal the record of Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell as the most decorated trainers in Grand National history, with a fourth win. The race features a diverse field with horses from various stables, including entries from Gordon Elliott, Henry de Bromhead, and Joseph Patrick O'Brien, among others.
The full list of runners includes a mix of seasoned competitors and rising stars, such as Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, and Firefox, ensuring a highly competitive and unpredictable event. With amateur jockeys like Patrick Mullins participating alongside professionals, the race promises thrilling dynamics and potential upsets.
Broadcast Details and Event Schedule
The 2026 Randox Grand National is set to commence at 4.00 PM on Saturday, 11th April, at Aintree Racecourse. ITV will provide live coverage, offering comprehensive analysis and real-time updates for fans. This event not only highlights top-tier horse racing but also contributes significantly to the local economy and tourism in the region.
As anticipation builds, betting markets and fan discussions are intensifying, with I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett emerging as early favourites. The confirmed field underscores the Grand National's status as a premier sporting spectacle, blending tradition, excitement, and high stakes in one of the world's most challenging steeplechases.
