The day has finally arrived at Aintree with the horse racing’s blockbuster annual tradition and the UK’s biggest betting event, the Grand National, returning for the 2026 edition – 187 years after it was first run.
I Am Maximus is among the bookies’ favourite to reclaim the crown he took in 2024, having been runner-up to 33/1 shot Nick Rockett last year, and should Willie Mullins’ charge do so, he will be the first horse since the legendary Red Rum in the 1970s to regain the Grand National title having lost it.
As ever, iconic trainer Mullins has plenty of chances in the race, with eight horses running including Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely and his son Patrick on Grangeclare West, as well as the 2024 partnership of Paul Townend and I Am Maximus reuniting. However, the likes of Dan Skelton’s Panic Attack and Jagwar for Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero are also fancied.There are a number of Grand National free bets available from the best betting sites and you can access various free bet offers here.
There has been sad news already at Aintree this week however, with Gold Dancer being put down moments after breaking his back while winning the Mildmay Novices’ Chase on Ladies Day. Gold Dancer had managed to stay on its feet following an awkward landing on the final fence to win by four and three-quarter lengths but received on-course treatment by the Aintree veterinary team, which confirmed the injuries were fatal.
Follow all the action from the Grand National at Aintree with our blog below:
