Preview of 2026 Grand National Horse Race at Aintree

The Grand National horse race is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Aintree racecourse. A maximum of 34 horses will compete, selected from an initial entry list of 78, which has been reduced to 54. Final declarations will occur on Wednesday, April 8, three days before the event, a change from the previous 48-hour deadline. This adjustment has increased the number of reserve runners from four to six, with reserves eligible until 1 p.m. the day prior. Trainer Willie Mullins leads the entries with 10 horses, including 2024 winner I Am Maximus, who carries top weight of 11 stone 12 pounds. JP McManus-owned Iroko, fourth in the 2025 race, is also highly regarded. Notably, L'Homme Presse will miss the competition due to lameness, as announced by trainer Venetia Williams. The field includes various contenders with recent performances in key trials, such as the Savills Chase, Irish Gold Cup, and Bobbyjo Chase. Historical context notes that only 13 mares have won the event, with the last being Nickel Coin in 1951. The race features a mix of experienced runners and newcomers, with betting odds reflecting current form and conditions.