It’s that time of year when even the most casual of racing followers has a flutter. The world’s biggest steeplechase, the Randox Grand National, takes place on Saturday with Nick Rockett going for back-to-back wins.
Racing fans all over the world will be tuning in to the action from Aintree, with hundreds of millions of pounds set to be lumped on the big race. For the once-a-year gambler, Mirror Sport has got you covered with a free sweepstake kit, which you can share with friends, family and colleagues.
DOWNLOAD GRAND NATIONAL 2026 SWEEPSTAKE KIT HERE
The 2026 race looks wide open. I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner and 2025 runner-up, is the current market leader. He remains remarkably consistent and is highly favoured due to his proven ability over the Aintree fences.
Another contender is Grangeclare West. After finishing a strong third in the 2025 race, he is seen as a major threat for the 2026 renewal, especially given his strong form in recent chases. Iroko finished fourth in 2025 as the favourite. He is highly regarded by trainers Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero and is expected to be a peak contender at the age of eight.
Rising star Jagwar has attracted significant support following a strong season, including a notable performance at the Cheltenham Festival. The Dan Skelton-trained Panic Attack has entered the conversation following wins in major handicap chases like the Coral Gold Cup.
Haiti Couleurs, the winner of both the Irish and Welsh Grand Nationals in 2025, can’t be discounted either. Meanwhile, Nick Rockett sits slightly further back in the betting as punters ponder his chances, given he is carrying a higher weight this year.
Grand National 2026 tickets
The Grand National 2026 is just around the corner, with the world-famous Aintree racecourse set to host three days of racing across April 9-11.
Standard and hospitality tickets start at £33.50 at The Jockey Clubwith VIP and hospitality packages also available from £249 at Seat Unique.
