Experts Recommend 8 Horses to Bet on in Grand National 2025
The Grand National 2025 is set to kick off on Saturday afternoon, with the iconic steeplechase course spanning four miles and two-and-a-half furlongs, famously dubbed as the People’s Race. Viewers from around the world are anticipated to tune in and catch the live action on ITV in the UK. This year, 34 horses will compete for victory in what is undoubtedly one of Britain’s most prestigious races. Among the declared runners, last year’s champion, I Am Maximus trained by Shark Hanlon, is back to defend the title, with high expectations pinned on Iroko as the top British contender. An array of tips from various experts, including Chris Wright from the Liverpool Echo, are compiled below for your convenience.
Former jockey, Mick Fitzgerald, shared his insights with Sky Sports, suggesting, “I think one of the speciality bets is JP McManus to win the race. Just I Am Maximus and Iroko alone are well fancied.” Discussing the previous winner, he mentioned, “I went back and watched I Am Maximus again to remind myself how good he was last year,” noting the difference in ground conditions and preparation this year. Evaluating the form, Fitzgerald added, “When you look at Iroko’s form, he was second to Inothewayurthinkin – the Gold Cup winner. The drier the ground, the better it is for Hewick’s chance, and he comes here in good form.” He also pointed out an underdog to watch, “I want to throw in Minella Indo. He’s a 12-year-old and the stats are going against him but he’s got the class and I can see him arriving there with every chance.”
Sky Sports pundit and tipster, Tom Collins, highlighted owner JP McManus’s strong contenders, stating, “I think owner JP McManus has a strong hand with Iroko and I Am Maximus as his two main horses in the field.” Commenting on Iroko, he remarked, “Iroko is the young gun on the scene. He’s unexposed and ready to run a big race after a couple of rides that haven’t seen him at his best.” He also mentioned Intense Raffles as a potential contender with untapped potential.
JP McManus, a three-time Grand National owner victor, expressed his thoughts with the Daily Telegraph, spotlighting I Am Maximus as the frontrunner based on his proven track record. In contrast, Chris Wright from the ECHO offered a different perspective, predicting Gavin Cromwell’s Perceval Legallois to triumph, followed by Vanillier, Nick Rockett, and Stumptown to round up the top selections.
As the anticipation builds for the Grand National 2025 at Aintree this weekend, the race promises exhilarating competition and nail-biting moments. With a diverse range of experts analysing the contenders, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown on the turf. Stay tuned for the latest updates and results from this highly anticipated event, where dreams will be made and legends will be born on the hallowed grounds of Aintree.