Randox Grand National 2026 Tips: Top Picks for Aintree’s Iconic Showpiece
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
13. Iroko - Jonjo O’Neill Jr (14/1)
There is a strong case to be made that Iroko is the most well-rounded contender in this year’s field. He produced an excellent effort when claiming fourth as a novice in last year’s Grand National, where he finished strongly after being forced to come from further back than ideal.
Since then, he has matured into a more complete chaser, especially after his wind operation. Crucially, Iroko ticks several boxes in that he handles soft ground well, stays the trip, and already has experience over Aintree’s fences.
With a more prominent ride expected from Jonjo O’Neill Jr this time, he is well-equipped to go a few places better and possibly even land the big one. At 14/1 odds with all the best online betting sites, we make Iroko our best E/W pick for the 2026 Grand National.
6. Haiti Couleurs - Sean Bowen (18/1)
There aren’t many horses around that boast a stamina profile quite like Haiti Couleurs. Victories in both the Welsh Grand National and Irish Grand National underline his credentials as a relentless stayer who thrives over marathon trips such as this weekend’s Aintree spectacular.
While his effort in the Cheltenham Gold Cup can be forgiven, he was still able to dictate matters in a stronger field, and we are of the mind that this represents a more suitable test for him. The National’s emphasis on endurance rather than pure class plays directly into his hands.
Ground conditions will be crucial, and softer going will only improve his chances. However, even if conditions do not suit, he still has the engine to keep going when others begin to fade. Do not leave Haiti Couleurs out of any bets on the day!
22. Jagwar - Mark Walsh (14/1)
Jagwar is certainly one of the more intriguing runners in this year’s field, as he arrives lightly raced but is a rapidly improving chaser. His showing at the Ultima at Cheltenham was full of promise, as he stayed the distance strongly despite early jumping errors that forced him on the back foot.
That effort indicated there is plenty more to come, particularly when going further. However, there is no denying that our main concern is his age. Indeed, seven-year-olds have a poor historical record in this race, but more recent trends suggest that a horse with pure ability can defy those stats.
If he settles into a nice rhythm over the fence, it would come as no surprise to see Jagwar finishing strongest of all.
1. I Am Maximus - Paul Townened (7/1)
The 2024 winner and 2025 runner-up, I Am Maximus, is simply impossible to ignore given his outstanding record in this race. His proven ability over the Aintree fences and his overall consistency at the highest level make it unsurprising to see him at the top of the betting boards.
However, there are a few reasons to consider taking him on at the likely price. Carrying top weight in a race of this gruelling nature is a significant challenge, and history shows how difficult it is to dominate this race year on year. Even for a horse with the class he possesses, the margin for error is minimal.
We are still expecting him to run his usual honest race and be in the mix down the straight, but the burden of weight and sheer unpredictability of the Grand National suggest that I Am Maximus may be vulnerable to other well-handicapped rivals.
Others to Note for 2026 Grand National
Our value pick of the 2026 Grand National is Favori De Champou at a whopping 40/1. He has proven that his win in the Paddy Power Chase was no fluke as he backed it up with a strong performance over Cheltenham’s cross-country.
Glenclare West brings solid course form and fits the typical age profile, while Johnnywho has attracted attention following his Ultima success. Finally, the progressive novice Oscar's Brother is another interesting runner who could improve for the extreme trip this weekend.
