Grand National 2026: Who is the favourite?

All eyes turn to Liverpool on Saturday 11th April as the world's greatest steeplechase takes centre stage. With class, stamina and a touch of luck required to conquer Aintree's infamous obstacles, we've dissected the betting to bring you the latest insights on this year's leading contenders...

1st April- Odds Update- I am Maximus

Support for I Am Maximus has already seen a significant shift, from 10/111.00 when this article was first published in March, to 13/27.50 and now down to 6/17.00, and there's little to suggest the momentum is slowing. He's been one of the best-backed runners in the market, with punters buying into his progressive profile and recent form, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see him go off even shorter if the trend continues...

Who are the Leading Contenders in 2026?

I Am Maximus was 10/111.00, now 6/17.00

Willie Mullins' star gelding arrives at Aintree bidding to become just the third horse aged 10+ to land the National in the last two decades. Fresh from a brave second in February's Paddy Power Irish Gold Cup - a top-level warm-up - the defending champion carries top weight of 11st 12lbs. While age and weight are against him, his course knowledge and Mullins' mastermind training could see him defy the odds once again.

Jagwar was 12/113.00, now 9/110.00

Having scooped the Ultima Handicap at Cheltenham by a neck in March, Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero's charge now tackles the National's famed marathon distance for the first time. The step up to 4½ miles is the unknown, but his recent form suggests he's well-handicapped, and connections believe he's ready for this ultimate test.

Grangeclare West 10/111.00

Having finished a gallant third 12 months ago, this Mullins-trained veteran is back for another crack. A clattering error at the final fence last year cost him dearly, but he responded magnificently with a dominant victory in the Grade 3 Bobbyjo Chase this season. Now reunited with jockey Sean Bowen, the 10-year-old will be desperate to go one better under the Kop lights.

Iroko was 10/111.00, now 12/113.00

The JP McManus-owned stalwart has been a Grand National talking horse for two seasons. After a close fourth 12 months ago, he began this campaign with an excellent second to The Jukebox Man on seasonal reappearance, followed by a convincing Ascot success over Firefox before Christmas. However, he struggled to feature when 12th in March's Ultima Handicap at Cheltenham - a rare off day. Nevertheless, his previous Aintree experience and stamina-making profile keep him firmly in the mix.

Other Notable Runners

• Johnnywho: Ultima winner and another McManus runner with a fine record over fences.
• Haiti Couleurs: Dual Irish/Welsh National winner; loves Aintree and could strike under a light weight.
• Monty's Star: Progressive young stayer with excellent form over similar trips.
• Panic Attack: Triumph in last season's Paddy Power Gold Cup make her a live outsider.

Current Betfair Betting (Ante-Post)

What to Watch on Race Day

• Weather conditions: Heavy rain could turn Aintree into a true mudbath - ideal for some, a nightmare for others.
• Jockey bookings: Declarations due 24 hours before race; watch for any last-minute trainer decisions.
• Market moves: Early support for I Am Maximus or Grangeclare West could signal strong confidence from professional punters.

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