2025 Grand National: Final Preview & Key Contenders

2025 Grand National: Final Preview and Key Contenders Ahead of Tomorrow’s Race

 

The highly anticipated 2025 Grand National is set to unfold tomorrow, Saturday, April 5, at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. As the world’s most famous steeplechase kicks off at 4pm, there’s no better time to explore the latest offers from Irish betting sites, including free bets, enhanced places, and price boosts, which you can claim when registering. With 34 horses lining up, this year’s race promises to be as thrilling as ever. Here’s a rundown of the key contenders, their odds, and what makes them stand out as they vie for glory in the Grand National.

 

Leading Contenders for the 2025 Grand National

As we approach the start of the race, several horses have emerged as clear favourites based on their form and preparation. Here’s a look at the leading contenders and their odds for tomorrow’s Grand National:

 

1. I Am Maximus

Odds: 13/2
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Paul Townend
Weight: 11st 12lb

The defending champion returns to Aintree with hopes of retaining his crown. Although his season has seen some mixed results, including disappointing runs behind Galopin Des Champs, I Am Maximus remains a formidable force. His prior victory at the Grand National and the class he has shown in the past make him one to watch, particularly as he looks to regain his peak form for the big race.

 

10. Stumptown

Odds: 10/1
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
Jockey: Keith Donoghue
Weight: 11st 2lb

In excellent form, Stumptown has been impressive in recent months, with a series of victories, including four consecutive wins on cross-country tracks. His solid performance at Cheltenham further strengthens his credentials ahead of Aintree. With proven stamina and the ability to carry top weights, Stumptown is one of the strongest contenders for victory this year.

 

18. Iroko

Odds: 10/1
Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero
Jockey: Jonjo O’Neill Jr
Weight: 10st 11lb

Iroko is one of the rising stars in National Hunt racing. After claiming a Grade 1 chase victory at Cheltenham, he’s quickly become one of the top contenders for the Grand National. With a solid preparation run at Kelso and a blend of stamina and class, Iroko has all the ingredients to make a strong challenge at Aintree.

 

19. Intense Raffles

Odds: 14/1
Trainer: Tom Gibney
Jockey: JJ Slevin
Weight: 10st 10lb

Having won the Irish National, Intense Raffles has earned his place among the top contenders for Aintree. He followed up his Irish victory with a strong performance in the Bobbyjo Chase, and his tenacity makes him a serious challenger. This talented grey is likely to be one of the key runners as the race unfolds.

 

5. Hewick

Odds: 12/1
Trainer: Shark Hanlon
Jockey: Gavin Sheehan
Weight: 11st 7lb

Hewick, purchased for just £800, has proven himself a fan favourite with victories in prestigious races such as the King George and the US Grand National. His preference for good ground and his consistent form put him in the mix for a strong performance at Aintree.

 

28. Vanillier

Odds: 14/1
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
Jockey: Sean Flanagan
Weight: 10st 6lb

A gutsy runner-up in the 2023 Grand National, Vanillier struggled last year but enters this race in much better form. With improved training and a favourable preparation, he could make a strong challenge for the title again this year.

 

16. Perceval Legallois

Odds: 12/1
Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
Jockey: Mark Walsh
Weight: 10st 12lb

After impressive back-to-back wins at Leopardstown, including a notable Christmas handicap victory, Perceval Legallois has caught the attention of many. Though his recent focus has been on hurdles, his performances in the past suggest he could be a surprise package at Aintree.

 

8. Minella Cocooner

Odds: 14/1
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Jonathan Burke
Weight: 11st 2lb

Minella Cocooner finished a strong third in the 2024 Irish National, which demonstrates his ability against tough opposition. His solid pedigree and experience make him a strong candidate for the Grand National, and he could shine in this type of race.

 

Other Horses to Watch

While the favourites dominate the headlines, there are several other horses that could also make a significant impact in the 2025 Grand National:

 

30. Hyland

Odds: 22/1
Trainer: Nicky Henderson
Jockey: Nico De Boinville
Weight: 10st 6lb

Hyland has shown great promise, especially with a strong second-place finish at Kempton. A solid jumper with a preference for good ground, this young horse could surprise many if his progression continues at Aintree.

 

26. Meetingofthewaters

Odds: 25/1
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: Danny Mullins
Weight: 10st 7lb

Meetingofthewaters ran well in last year’s Grand National, finishing seventh, but faded in the final stages. With stamina being a concern, he has had a quieter campaign this season, which may allow him to conserve energy for a better performance in the 2025 race.

 

17. Kandoo Kid

Odds: 22/1
Trainer: Paul Nicholls
Jockey: Harry Cobden
Weight: 10st 11lb

Kandoo Kid has been in solid form, with a win in the Coral Gold Trophy and a third-place finish in the Topham. With a quiet preparation and strong jumping ability, he could emerge as a surprise performer in the 2025 Grand National.

 

The 2025 Grand National – A Race to Remember

With so many talented horses in the mix, the 2025 Grand National promises to be a thrilling contest. From defending champion I Am Maximus to rising stars like Stumptown and Iroko, there’s no shortage of potential winners. As the day approaches, all eyes will be on these leading contenders as they battle it out in the world’s greatest steeplechase. The Grand National is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, and with so many intriguing stories, it is sure to captivate audiences around the globe.