Grand National Horses – 2026 Winners, Records & Past Champions
The Grand National remains one of the most unpredictable and celebrated steeplechases in the world. In 2026, I Am Maximus became the first horse since Red Rum to win the race more than once, cementing a new chapter in the event’s storied history. This article covers the confirmed runners, betting favourites, historical winners, race records, and everything else you need to know about Grand National horses.
Get the confirmed list of horses for the 2026 race, including key contenders and longshots.
Read more
See the current betting favourites and the latest expert predictions for the big race.
Read more
Discover the legends of the race, from Red Rum to Tiger Roll, with a full winners history.
Read more
From the most runners to the fewest, dive into the fascinating statistical records of the National.
Read more
- Only 7 pre-race favourites have won since 1999, indicating that the Grand National is consistently a race for surprise outcomes.
- Recent history shows a trend of dominant horses like I Am Maximus (2024, 2026) and Tiger Roll (2019) winning multiple times, bucking the trend of one-off winners.
- The maximum field size of 40 and the unique Aintree obstacles mean that a horse’s jumping ability is often as critical as their flat speed.
- A horse’s weight (handicap) is a crucial factor, with only four horses since 1936 winning with 12 stone or more, highlighting the difficulty of carrying top weight.
- The race format has changed over time; historically up to 66 horses ran, but safety measures have reduced this to a maximum of 40.
| Fact | Statistic | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Most Runners | 66 | Recorded in 1929, a testament to the race’s historical popularity. |
| Least Runners | 10 | In 1883, likely due to poor ground or a small entry. |
| 2025 Runners | 34 | Shows the modern race is typically close to the 40 cap. |
| Top-Weight Winners | 4 | Only 4 horses have won carrying 12 stone or more since 1936. Includes Red Rum and Golden Miller. |
| Favourite Wins | 7 | Since 1999, only 7 pre-race favourites have won, highlighting the unpredictable nature. |
| Double Winners | Recent | I Am Maximus (2024, 2026) and Tiger Roll (2019) have won multiple times recently. |
Confirmed Grand National 2026 Runners and Horse Names
The 2026 race had 34 declared runners, as confirmed by the Racing Post preview page. The official results page from The Jockey Club lists the full finishing order, with I Am Maximus (9/2 fav) taking first place ahead of Iroko (18/1) and Jordans (28/1). For a detailed breakdown of every horse that ran, including those that failed to finish, explore the full runner list.
Grand National 2026 Predictions and Favourites
I Am Maximus entered the 2026 race as the favourite at 9/2, and justified that market confidence by winning comfortably. The betting picture, however, shifted in the weeks before the race. A preview racecard showed him at 8-1, but heavy backing pushed him to 9/2 by the off. Other runners who attracted support included Iroko at 18/1 and Johnnywho at 12/1, both of whom finished in the top four.
Who were the other market principals?
Beyond the winner, the top five finishers reflected a mix of shorter-priced and larger-priced contenders. Jordans (28/1) and High Class Hero (66/1) demonstrated that outsider victories remain a real possibility. The spread of odds across the placed horses underlines the difficulty of predicting the Grand National winner.
I Am Maximus was listed at 8-1 on a pre-race snapshot, but his starting price (SP) was 9/2 fav. This movement illustrates how market activity can shift odds significantly in the final hours before the race. Bettors should always check the latest SP on official results pages.
For real-time odds and racecards, Grand National Fans provides updates, while the official Racing Post offers comprehensive betting data and expert tips. To see how the favourites stack up against the field, check the latest market movers.
Grand National Winners List and History
Which horses have won the Grand National the most times?
Only a handful of horses have won the Grand National more than once. Red Rum holds the record with three wins (1973, 1974, 1977). In the modern era, Tiger Roll won back-to-back in 2018 and 2019. I Am Maximus joined that elite club in 2026, adding to his 2024 victory. Grand National history and winners confirm that no other horse has achieved more than three wins. For a complete list of every champion, browse the all-time winners archive.
Who are the most recent winners?
- 2026: I Am Maximus (Paul Townend / Willie Mullins / J.P. McManus) – 9/2 fav
- 2025: Nick Rockett
- 2024: I Am Maximus
- 2023: Corach Rambler
- 2022: Noble Yeats
The full list of previous winners of the Grand National is maintained by The Jockey Club and covers every running since 1839.
What is the significance of repeat winners?
The 2026 result was widely described as a historic moment because I Am Maximus became the first horse since Red Rum to regain the title. The achievement was reported by BBC Sport and ESPN, both highlighting the rarity of back-to-back or multiple wins in the race’s modern era.
Grand National Records and Field Size
The record of 66 runners (1929) seems extraordinary compared to today’s maximum of 40. Safety modifications to fences and race conditions have gradually reduced the field, making the race more selective but no less challenging.
What is the record for the highest number of runners?
66 runners in 1929 remains the highest number to ever contest the Grand National. That field size has never been repeated, and since the 1990s the race has been capped at 40. For a deeper look at the extremes, visit the race records section.
What is the record for the lowest number of runners?
Only 10 horses ran in 1883. This was likely due to poor ground conditions or a small entry list. It stands in stark contrast to the large fields of the early 20th century.
How many runners were there in the 2025 Grand National?
The 2025 race had 34 declared runners, according to Racing Post reports. The 2026 race also featured 34 runners, though several failed to finish due to falls, unseated riders, or being pulled up.
Since 1936, only four horses have won carrying 12 stone or more: Reynoldstown (1936), Golden Miller (1934), Red Rum (1974), and a few others. The handicap system makes top-weight victories extremely rare, which is why I Am Maximus’s win off 11 stone 12 lb in 2026 was still a significant achievement.
How Have Grand National Horse Records Evolved Over Time?
- – Record for the fewest runners: only 10 horses.
- – Record for the most runners: 66 horses.
- – Reynoldstown wins with 12 stone 2 lb, one of the highest weights carried to victory.
- – Red Rum wins his second Grand National carrying 12 stone.
- – Beginning of the “era of the underdog”: only 7 favourites win between 1999 and 2025.
- – Don’t Push It wins, proving a well-fancied horse can still triumph.
- – Tiger Roll wins his second consecutive Grand National.
- – Corach Rambler wins, adding to the list of pre-race favourites that succeed.
- – I Am Maximus wins the 2024 race.
- – Race sees 34 runners.
- – I Am Maximus wins again, joining the elite repeat winners.
What Is Confirmed and What Remains Uncertain About Grand National Horses?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| The race is held at Aintree Racecourse. | The exact list of runners for the 2026 race is subject to change until the final declaration stage. |
| The 2025 race had 34 runners. | Betting odds are fluid and change constantly based on market activity. |
| Red Rum won three Grand Nationals in the 1970s. | While I Am Maximus won in 2026 and 2024, whether he will attempt a third win in 2027 is unconfirmed (though highly likely given his form). |
| I Am Maximus won the 2024 and 2026 races. | The exact number of finishers in 2026 was lower than the 34 starters because of falls, unseats, and pull-ups. |
| The maximum number of runners is capped at 40. | Speculation about future rule changes remains. |
What Is the Broader Context Behind Grand National Horse Trends?
The Shifting Dynamics of Favourites
Only 7 pre-race favourites have won since 1999. The modern race, with its larger competitive fields, has made it harder for top-weight horses to dominate. However, exceptions like I Am Maximus show a possible shift back towards quality horses succeeding.
The Significance of Weight
The handicap system means horses carry a weight that reflects their ability. Overcoming a 12-stone burden is a monumental task, which is why Red Rum’s 1974 win under 12 stone remains legendary.
Historical Field Size and Safety
The 66-runner field of 1929 is a reminder of how much the race has changed. Safety modifications to fences and race conditions have made the Grand National more selective. The modern cap of 40 ensures a safer, though still fiercely competitive, event.
The Modern Era of Repeat Winners
Tiger Roll and I Am Maximus have both won multiple times recently. This may signal a change in the race’s nature or simply reflect the emergence of exceptional horses.
Where Can I Find Authoritative Information on Grand National Horses?
“Official facts and figures from the race’s governing body. Use for verifying records and providing authoritative stats.”
“A fan-turned-analyst perspective that provides betting insights and confirms the trend of favourites.”
Grand National Fans
“A comprehensive guide that provides definitive lists of runners and records, useful for cross-referencing.”
For official results and historic records, The Jockey Club site is the most reliable source. Betting odds and racecards are best tracked on Racing Post or Grand National Fans.
What’s Next for Grand National Horses?
The next Grand National is scheduled for 10th April 2027. All eyes will be on I Am Maximus to see if he attempts a historic third win. Early betting odds will shift once confirmed entries are announced. For the most current updates on runners and tips, check the previous winners of the Grand National list and follow official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grand National Horses
What is the record for the most runners in the Grand National?
The record for the most runners is 66, set in 1929.
What is the record for the fewest runners in the Grand National?
The record for the fewest runners is 10, set in 1883.
How many runners were there in the 2025 Grand National?
There were 34 runners in the 2025 Grand National.
Who was the Grand National 2026 winner?
I Am Maximus won the 2026 Grand National.
How can I watch the Grand National live?
The Grand National is typically broadcast on major UK and Irish television channels, as well as through online streaming services in your region.
Where can I get immediate Grand National results today?
You can get immediate results from the official Jockey Club website, major sports news outlets, and dedicated racing apps like the official TJC app.
Which horse races are happening today?
To see what races are happening today, please check the race day schedule on official Jockey Club or Racing Post websites, as the schedule varies.
More related posts
Rio Ngumoha – Age, Height, Career, and Nationality
Saturn Devouring His Son – Goya’s Darkest Masterpiece Explained
Sand and Water Table – Best UK Models and Retailers 2025
Paul O’Grady – Cause of Death, Husband, and Life Story
Lorraine Ashbourne – Biography, Career, and Family Life
Claire Danes – Her Career, Family, and Net Worth
Patrice Evra – Career, Net Worth, Wife and Full Biography
Tim Vine – Biography, Net Worth, Tour and Personal Life Answers
