The Grand National is upon us once again, with the world of horse racing gearing up for one of its most prestigious events. Scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Aintree Racecourse, this year’s Grand National promises to be an exhilarating spectacle as 34 horses prepare to tackle the challenging course, which features 30 fences over a distance of approximately 4 miles and 2½ furlongs.
Last year’s champion, I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, is back to defend his title, and he has drawn significant attention from punters and fans alike. The ten-year-old horse, who won the race at odds of 7-1, is currently listed at 11/2 as he aims to make history by becoming a back-to-back winner. Mullins’ stable has been in excellent form, and the support for I Am Maximus has been palpable as the race day approaches.
In addition to I Am Maximus, the competition is fierce with notable contenders including Hewick, Stumptown, and Vanillier, each of whom has shown promise in their recent outings. Hewick, often referred to as the ‘People’s Horse,’ was purchased for just £800 and has since amassed over £750,000 in prize money, including a victory in the American Grand National in 2022. His trainer, John 'Shark' Hanlon, has opted to skip the Cheltenham Gold Cup to focus solely on the Grand National, a decision that has been met with optimism from fans and analysts alike.
As the excitement builds, talkSPORT will provide live commentary of the race, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action. Rupert Bell and Lizzie Kelly will be on the call, giving insights and updates as the horses navigate the course.
The Grand National is not just another race; it’s a cultural phenomenon that captivates the nation. Even those who don’t typically follow horse racing find themselves drawn to the event, making it a significant occasion in the British sporting calendar. This year, the race is expected to kick off at 4:00 PM, and with a prize fund that has attracted the best horses from across the globe, it promises to deliver drama and excitement.
Leading up to the main event, the Aintree Grand National Festival features several key races, with ITV Racing covering 17 races throughout the weekend. Fans can tune in to see top-level racing from the Merseyside track, with expert commentary from Ruby Walsh, Mick Fitzgerald, and Matt Chapman. The Opening Show airs each morning, setting the stage for the action to come.
On Friday, April 4, the festival showcased several thrilling races, including the Mildmay Novices’ Chase, which was won by Caldwell Potter, and the Melling Chase, where Jonbon claimed victory. The results from these races are crucial as they provide insights into the form of the horses leading into the Grand National.
The odds for the Grand National reflect the competitive nature of this year’s field. Alongside I Am Maximus, other horses to watch include Iroko at 15/2, Stumptown at 9/1, and Hewick at 10/1. Each horse brings a unique story and set of skills to the race, making it difficult to predict a clear favorite.
Hewick’s journey has been particularly remarkable. After winning major races and proving his stamina, he has captured the hearts of fans. His trainer, Shark Hanlon, has expressed confidence in Hewick’s abilities, stating that the horse has been well-prepared for this challenge. “He has the quality, had a smooth preparation, and crucially, the ground he wants,” Hanlon remarked, highlighting Hewick’s readiness for the race.
Stumptown, trained by Gavin Cromwell, is another horse that has been quietly gaining attention. Known for his staying power and ability to perform under pressure, Stumptown is expected to be a strong contender, especially given his consistent performances in long-distance chases.
Meanwhile, Vanillier, who finished a strong second in last year’s Grand National, is also in the mix. His trainer, Gavin Cromwell, has a solid reputation, and Vanillier’s experience on the course could play a significant role in his performance this year.
As the race day approaches, anticipation is building among fans, trainers, and jockeys alike. With a mix of seasoned competitors and rising stars, the 2025 Grand National is set to be a memorable event. The atmosphere at Aintree will be electric, with thousands of spectators expected to gather and cheer for their chosen horses.
In the lead-up to the race, various betting offers are available, with bookmakers like CopyBet enticing new customers with free bets. As always, the Grand National is not just about the horses but also the thrill of betting and the fun of participating in a time-honored tradition.
As the countdown to the Grand National continues, fans are encouraged to make their picks and prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable day of racing. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing aficionado or a casual viewer, the Grand National offers something for everyone, and the excitement is palpable.
With the stage set and the horses ready to run, the question remains: who will emerge victorious in the 2025 Grand National? As history has shown, anything can happen in this race, and that’s what makes it so special. So, grab your betting slips, settle in, and get ready for a day of thrilling action at Aintree!
