The upcoming Grand National scheduled for April 11 will see a maximum of 34 horses competing at the famous Aintree racecourse, though the initial list of entries far exceeds this number. Among the top contenders is Iroko, who finished fourth in the 2025 event and is considered one of the favourites this year, notably carrying 10 pounds less than last year’s champion, Nick Rockett. Additionally, the former champion, I Am Maximus, is set to race again, carrying the highest weight of 11st 12lb, adding significant competition to the lineup.

As the racing season progresses, the list of initial entries will be reduced, with only the strongest horses advancing toward the final selection for the Grand National. The excitement builds as fans await to see how the horses, trained under the iconic green and gold colours of JP McManus, will perform this season and whether their previous performances will set the stage for a thrilling race. The betting odds offered by Bet365 reflect the early predictions and the competitive nature of this renowned event.

The Grand National, a flagship event in the UK racing calendar, attracts considerable attention not only for the race's rich history but also for the high stakes involved for both jockeys and punters alike. As the date approaches, speculation will mount around which horses will emerge as top contenders, and the dynamics of their previous performances will play a crucial role in shaping the odds and expectations of this prestigious race.