Grand National pinstickers’ guide to runners
Grand National 2026: Pinstickers’ Insights on Key Contenders
With the 2026 Grand National set for April 11 at Aintree, here’s a breakdown of the 34 entrants, their trainers, jockeys, and recent form. Odds are subject to change, and three runners—Nick Rockett (number 2), Spillane’s Tower (number 7), and Pied Piper (number 35)—have been withdrawn from the race.
Form Abbreviations
Form codes: F = Fell, P = Pulled up, U = Unseated rider, S = Slipped up.
Notable Contenders
Quai de Bourbon is the favorite for the 2026 Grand National, while Spanish Harlem is considered the best outsider. Below are highlights from the racecard:
1. Panic Attack Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) Jockey: Paul Townend Form: 82-925 Age: 10 Weight: 11st 12lb
“Panic Attack won in 2024 and finished just behind stablemate Nick Rockett the year prior on quicker ground. This Willie Mullins-trained Aintree specialist is again a strong contender, with a weight increase of just one pound,”
Gina notes.
2. Grangeclare West Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) Jockey: Patrick Mullins Form: 5-8481 Age: 10 Weight: 11st 10lb
“Grangeclare West secured victory in 2024 and narrowly missed out on a repeat performance by finishing second to Nick Rockett the year before on faster ground,”
John highlights. Rating: 7/10. Odds: 9-1.
3. Jagwar Trainer: Gordon Elliott (IRE) Jockey: Jack Kennedy Form: 3-P321 Age: 10 Weight: 11st 10lb
“Jagwar returned from a long absence this season and has shown consistent improvement, notably finishing second to the highly regarded Grangeclare West in Ireland’s Bobbyjo Chase. A former Betfred Bowl winner at Aintree, this 10-year-old is primed for a race debut,”
Gina comments. Rating: 6/10. Odds: 25-1.
4. Jordans Best Trainer: Rebecca Curtis Jockey: Sean Bowen Form: 1P11P Age: 9 Weight: 11st 10lb
“Jordans Best has emerged as a standout performer this season, claiming victories in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow and the Denman Chase at Newbury. His recent form suggests he could thrive on softer ground, where his odds have improved from 14-1 to 7-1,”
John adds.
5. I Am Maximus Trainer: Gordon Elliott (IRE) Jockey: Keith Donoghue Form: 21246 Age: 8 Weight: 11st 4lb
“I Am Maximus, a regular Grade One contender, has yet to secure a Grand National win. Though his previous performances were promising, a recent stumble at the final fence raised concerns about his stamina. His trainer, Gordon Elliott, has three prior National victories, but this year’s challenge may be tougher,”
Gina explains. Rating: 5/10. Odds: 50-1.
6. Monty’s Star Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) Jockey: Brian Hayes Form: 11PUP Age: 8 Weight: 11st 3lb
“Monty’s Star has shown flashes of brilliance in recent races, but inconsistent form—marked by a pulled-up finish in the Kerry National—casts doubt on his readiness for the National. Despite his trainer’s track record, his stamina over extended distances remains a question mark,”
John observes. Rating: 5/10. Odds: 16-1.
The 2026 Grand National will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, with real-time updates available via the BBC Sport website and app. Key to note: the race’s outcome could hinge on the track’s condition, with soft ground potentially favoring certain runners over the faster terrain seen in previous years.
