Grand National Pinstickers’ Guide to Runners
Saturday’s Grand National at Aintree will see 34 horses take to the track, with expert analysis from BBC Radio 5 Live’s John Hunt and Gina Bryce. The article outlines critical details about each contender, including their latest performance, age, and weight. Note that the odds for some entries may fluctuate, and three horses—Nick Rockett (number two), Spillane’s Tower (number seven), and Pied Piper (number 35)—have been withdrawn from the lineup.
Key Contestants
Form codes are defined as follows: F – Fell, P – Pulled up, U – Unseated rider, S – Slipped up. Below are summaries of the field, highlighting their recent results and potential.
1. Panic Attack
Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) | Jockey: Paul Townend | Form: 82-925 | Age: 10 | Weight: 11st 12lb
“Gina: After claiming victory in 2024 and finishing closely behind stablemate Nick Rockett the following year on improved ground, this Aintree specialist appears to be a strong contender once again. The horse is expected to compete at a slightly higher weight, but its track record suggests it remains a viable option.”
2. Grangeclare West
Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) | Jockey: Patrick Mullins | Form: 5-8481 | Age: 10 | Weight: 11st 10lb
“John: This horse finished third in last year’s race, narrowly missing out by three lengths. Despite a stumble at fence 25 (Valentines Brook) and a misstep at the final barrier, it has shown consistent quality. With more strategic handling, its performance could improve further.”
3. I Am Maximus
Trainer: Willie Mullins (IRE) | Jockey: Brian Hayes | Form: 11PUP | Age: 8 | Weight: 11st 3lb
“John: A sequence of form codes makes it challenging to gauge confidence, yet its recent triumph in the Kerry National hints at suitability for this challenge. The horse’s performance could hinge on the conditions, with soft ground offering better prospects than the drier alternative.”
4. Quai de Bourbon
Trainer: Joseph O’Brien (IRE) | Jockey: JJ Slevin | Form: 7-4423 | Age: 10 | Weight: 11st 10lb
“Gina: Having secured a notable victory in the King George and nearly replicated it at Kempton this season, this horse may benefit from the preferred faster surface. However, its stamina has been questioned in recent runs, particularly over extended distances.”
5. Spanish Harlem
Trainer: Gordon Elliott (IRE) | Jockey: Darragh O’Keeffe | Form: 4-3056 | Age: 9 | Weight: 11st 3lb
“John: This horse has maintained a high standard in Grade One races over the past two years but has only won over fences in a minor contest on New Year’s Eve 2023. Its form against top-tier competitors like Fact To File and Spillane’s Tower will be pivotal, though recent performances suggest it may face challenges.”
The Grand National 2026 is set for Saturday, 11 April, at 16:00 BST. Live updates, race commentary, and reaction will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, while the BBC Sport website and app will provide real-time text coverage for all races on the day.
