Grand National 2025 Preview: Key Contenders for the World’s Greatest Steeplechase

The 2025 Grand National gets underway tomorrow at 4pm and as such, now is an excellent time to check out the very latest bookmaker free bets, enhanced places and price boosts which you can claim when registering with any of our Irish free bet bookmakers. 

 

Grand National 2025 Preview: Key Contenders for the World’s Greatest Steeplechase

 

The Grand National is set to return to Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool on April 5, 2025, once again capturing the hearts of racing fans across the globe. A fixture of British sport since 1839, this legendary steeplechase remains the ultimate test of endurance and skill. As excitement builds for this year’s edition, attention turns to the top contenders vying for victory. With 34 horses eligible to run, here’s a comprehensive look at the leading hopefuls, their odds, and why they stand out in the 2025 Grand National.

 

Leading Contenders for the 2025 Grand National

As the final line-up takes shape, several horses are emerging as strong contenders, backed by impressive form and expert preparation. Here’s an overview of the horses most likely to make an impact at Aintree:

 

1. I Am Maximus

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

The defending champion returns to Aintree looking to retain his crown and has shortened over the past couple of days to 13/2 favourite. Despite mixed results this season, including two disappointing runs behind Galopin Des Champs, I Am Maximus remains a formidable presence at Aintree. His prior success at the Grand National makes him a dangerous opponent, especially once he has regained his best form.

 

10. Stumptown

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

A horse in formidable form, Stumptown has impressed with a series of victories, including four consecutive wins on cross-country tracks. His recent success at Cheltenham further strengthens his credentials for Aintree. Stumptown’s proven ability to handle challenging conditions and carry top weights positions him as one of the top favourites for this year’s Grand National.

 

18. Iroko

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

Iroko has quickly become a rising star in National Hunt racing. A Grade 1 chase winner at the Cheltenham Festival and a solid preparation run at Kelso make him one to watch for the 2025 Grand National. With a combination of stamina and form, Iroko could well prove himself at the highest level.

 

19. Intense Raffles

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

After his triumph in the Irish National, Intense Raffles has established himself as a serious contender for Aintree. He followed up with a strong performance in the Bobbyjo Chase, and his form suggests he could be a formidable challenger at Aintree. A talented grey with plenty of tenacity, he’s one to keep a close eye on.

 

5. Hewick

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

Purchased for just £800, Hewick has gone on to become a fan favourite with impressive victories in high-profile races such as the King George and the US Grand National. His preference for good ground and strong form make him a contender who could make a real impact at Aintree.

 

28. Vanillier

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

A brave runner-up in the 2023 Grand National, Vanillier struggled last year, finishing 14th, but enters this year’s race in much better shape. Improved training and a more favourable preparation could see him perform strongly and challenge for a top spot once again.

 

16. Perceval Legallois

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

After back-to-back victories at Leopardstown, including a notable Christmas handicap win, Perceval Legallois has garnered plenty of attention. Although his focus has been on hurdles, his impressive performances and potential make him a horse worth watching as Aintree approaches.

 

8. Minella Cocooner

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

Minella Cocooner’s strong third-place finish in last year’s Irish National highlights his competitive edge. With a solid pedigree and experience against tough opposition, he has the qualities necessary to thrive at Aintree. A return to a big handicap like the Grand National could allow him to showcase his potential.

 

Other Horses to Watch

While the favourites attract much of the attention, several other horses could also have a significant impact on the race:

 

9. Hyland

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

A promising young horse, Hyland has shown consistent improvement, most notably with a strong second-place finish at Kempton. His solid jumping technique and preference for good ground could see him surprise many at Aintree if his progression continues.

 

10. Meetingofthewaters

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

Meetingofthewaters performed well in last year’s Grand National before fading towards the end, ultimately finishing seventh. With stamina a concern, he has had a quieter campaign this season, potentially giving him more energy to handle the gruelling challenge of the Grand National.

 

11. Kandoo Kid

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

Kandoo Kid has shown excellent form with a strong win in the Coral Gold Trophy and a third-place finish in the Topham. With a relatively quiet preparation, he could emerge as the surprise package among Paul Nicholls’ runners, particularly with his solid weight and strong jumping ability.

 

The 2025 Grand National – A Thrilling Contest Awaits

With so many talented horses competing, the 2025 Grand National promises to be a race full of excitement and unpredictability. From defending champion I Am Maximus to rising stars like Stumptown and Iroko, the competition will be fierce. Aintree is set to host yet another unforgettable edition of the greatest steeplechase on Earth, and with so many intriguing contenders, it is shaping up to be a race to remember. As the day approaches, all eyes will be on these leading runners as they compete for glory in one of the most prestigious events in British sport.