Grand National 2025: Full List of Confirmed Runners, Favourite, and Tips
This afternoon, the prestigious Grand National race is set to take place at Aintree, with Willie Mullins’ I Am Maximus aiming to secure a historic second victory. As the anticipation builds for the event, millions of viewers are expected to tune in to witness the thrilling live action. This year, a field of 34 horses will compete in the challenging race, covering a gruelling distance of four miles and two and a half furlongs, while navigating 30 fences over two full circuits of the iconic Aintree course.
Last year’s champion, I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, is the standout favourite to clinch the title once again. The nine-year-old gelding is looking to etch his name in the history books by achieving back-to-back victories. With the grandeur of the Grand National capturing the hearts of spectators worldwide, the stakes are high for both the horses and their jockeys in this prestigious event.
Liverpool Echo’s racing correspondent, Chris Wright, has shared his insights and predictions for the race, tipping Perceval Legallois as a top contender. Owned by JP McManus and trained by Gavin Cromwell, Perceval Legallois possesses the qualities of a modern-day National winner, making him a formidable competitor in the field. With changes to the course and adjustments in distance and field size, the race has seen a shift towards younger, classier horses excelling in recent years.
In addition to Perceval Legallois, other horses to watch out for include Vanillier, Nick Rockett, and Stumptown, all of whom are considered strong contenders for victory. The expertise of injured jockey Derek Fox, combined with his familiarity with the Aintree track, further adds credibility to the predictions for a thrilling and competitive Grand National race this year.
As the excitement mounts for the Grand National event, here is the complete list of runners and riders confirmed for the 2025 race:
1. I Am Maximus (FR) ridden by Paul Townend
2. Royale Pagaille (FR) ridden by Charlie Deustch
3. Nick Rockett (IRE) ridden by Patrick Mullins
4. Grangeclare West (IRE) ridden by Brian Hayes
5. Hewick (IRE) ridden by Gavin Sheehan
6. Minella Indo (IRE) ridden by Rachael Blackmore
7. Appreciate It (IRE) ridden by Sean O’Keefe
8. Minella Cocooner (IRE) ridden by Jonathan Burke
9. Stumptown (IRE) ridden by Keith Donoghue
10. Conflated (IRE) ridden by Jordan Gainford
11. Hitman (FR) ridden by Freddie Gingell
12. Beauport (IRE) ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies
13. Bravemansgame (FR) ridden by James Reveley
14. Chantry House (IRE) ridden by James Bowen
15. Threeunderthrufive (IRE) ridden by Harry Skelton
16. Perceval Legallois (FR) ridden by Mark Walsh
17. Kandoo Kid (FR) ridden by Harry Cobden
Stay tuned as the Grand National 2025 unfolds, promising excitement, adrenaline, and unforgettable moments at the iconic Aintree racecourse. The quest for glory and the chase for victory culminate in this legendary event, where talent, strategy, and sheer determination will determine the ultimate champion amidst a field of elite competitors.