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- I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett lead Mullins charge at Aintree
- Defending champion and 2024 winner both feature prominently
- Competitive betting market with several contenders at 16/1 or shorter
Mullins Duo Add Historic Angle to 2026 Renewal
The 2026 Grand National is shaping up to be a fascinating renewal, with the last two winners of the race, I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett, both confirmed for Saturday’s showpiece at Aintree.
Trained by Willie Mullins, the pair have dominated recent editions:
- I Am Maximus stormed to victory in 2024, winning by seven and a half lengths
- Nick Rockett followed up in 2025, scoring under Patrick Mullins
Interestingly, I Am Maximus finished two and a half lengths behind Nick Rockett last year, adding another layer of intrigue to their rivalry heading into 2026.
Both horses now top the weights, as Mullins bids for a remarkable hat-trick of Grand National victories.
Now attention turns to the betting odds on the big race of the weekend, with bookmakers offering markets ahead of Saturday's main event.
Grand National 2026 Winner Odds
| Grand National 2026 Winner | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| I Am Maximus | 7/1 | 12.50% |
| Grangeclare West | 9/1 | 10.00% |
| Jagwar | 10/1 | 9.09% |
| Iroko | 12/1 | 7.69% |
| Panic Attack | 12/1 | 7.69% |
| Haiti Couleurs | 14/1 | 6.67% |
| Johnnywho | 14/1 | 6.67% |
| Captain Cody | 16/1 | 5.88% |
| Monty’s Star | 16/1 | 5.88% |
| Nick Rockett | 16/1 | 5.88% |
| Oscars Brother | 16/1 | 5.88% |
I Am Maximus Leads Mullins Charge
I Am Maximus heads the betting at 7/1, with strong support reflecting both his previous victory and consistent profile over staying trips.
Owned by JP McManus, his dominant 2024 success still stands out as one of the most impressive recent National performances.
However, with top weight to carry and a strong field behind him, a repeat success will be far from straightforward.
Nick Rockett Adds Champion Credentials
Last year’s winner Nick Rockett is priced at 16/1, offering each-way appeal given his proven ability over the Aintree fences.
His victory under Patrick Mullins in 2025 demonstrated both stamina and composure, which are key attributes for success in this race.
The fact he beat I Am Maximus last year adds extra intrigue, particularly for those looking beyond the favourite.
What the expert says...
Where To Bet on the Grand National
The Grand National remains one of the biggest events across bookmakers, with Ladbrokes offering extensive markets.
Punters can take advantage of:
- Enhanced place terms (5 places)
- Free bets and sign-up offers
- Specials across the full Aintree meeting
For broader markets, the Best Horse Racing Sites provide additional options.
18+. New UK & ROI customers only . Certain deposit methods & bet types excl . Min first £10 win or E/W bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 & get 4 x £10 free bets . Free bets valid for 7 days, stake not returned. No cashout, restrictions + T&C apply.
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£200 OLBG Tipster Competition
The OLBG Grand National Meeting Tipster Competition returns across April 9–11 with a £200 prize pool.
- £50 for 1st
- £25 for 2nd & 3rd
- £10 for next 10
Entry requirements:
- 10+ tips
- 5+ profitable
- 20+ words per tip
Must finish in profit
Free to enter across all races at Aintree.
Trends Blogs for the Festival
Thursday 9th April
- Aintree - Essential Guide To The Grand National Meeting
- 13:45 at Aintree - Anniversary 4YO Juvenile Hurdle
- 14:20 at Aintree - Manifesto Novices' Chase
- 14:55 at Aintree - Bowl Chase
- 15:30 at Aintree - Foxhunters Chase
- 16:05 at Aintree - Aintree Hurdle
- 16:40 at Aintree - Red Rum Handicap Chase
- 17:15 at Aintree - Nickel Coin Mares Bumper
Friday 10th April
- 13:45 at Aintree - National Meeting 2m4f Handicap Hurdle
- 14:20 at Aintree - Mildmay Novices' Chase
- 14:55 at Aintree - Top Novices' Hurdle
- 15:30 at Aintree - Melling Chase
- 16:05 at Aintree - Topham Chase
- 16:40 at Aintree - Sefton Novices' Hurdle
- 17:15 at Aintree - National Meeting 2m Handicap Hurdle
Saturday 11th April
- 12:45 at Aintree - Maghull Novices' Chase
- 13:20 at Aintree - National Meeting 3m Handicap Hurdle
- 13:55 at Aintree - Mersey Novices' Hurdle
- 14:30 at Aintree - Freebooter Handicap Chase
- 15:05 at Aintree - Liverpool Hurdle
- 16:00 at Aintree - Grand National
- 17:00 at Aintree - Champion Standard Open NH Flat Race
