As the Grand National approaches, racing enthusiasts are abuzz with anticipation for the famed event scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Aintree racecourse. The Grand National is renowned for its challenging course, stretching four miles and featuring 30 fences, making it one of the most compelling events in the horse racing calendar.
This year’s race promises to be particularly intriguing, with a competitive lineup that includes last year's champion I Am Maximus, who won by a striking seven-and-a-half lengths against Delta Work. Despite his victory, I Am Maximus has faced several challenges in the current season, including a concerning eighth-place finish in the Irish Gold Cup earlier this year and a pull-out from the Bobbyjo Chase due to an infection.
Additionally, the market currently favors Intense Raffles, who stands as the ante-post leader at 7/1 following his strong performances, including a second-place finish in the Bobbyjo Chase—three-quarters of a length behind Nick Rockett. Trained by Thomas Gibney, who took over in November 2023, Intense Raffles carried a weight of 10st 10lbs, ideal for this grueling race.
Meanwhile, Iroko—another strong contender—holds the position of second favorite at 8/1. Notably, he has a remarkable track record at Aintree, having previously won the Martin Pipe at the Cheltenham Festival and placed in both the Sefton Hurdle and the Mildmay Chase. Iroko is expected to perform admirably, particularly with a racing weight of 10st 11lbs.
Beyond these frontrunners, Minella Cocooner has turned heads with odds of 33/1 after landing a commendable fifth place in the Irish Grand National last year. His recent performance in the Bobbyjo Chase signals that he may be hitting form just in time for the Grand National.
JP McManus, the biggest owner in jumps racing, will likely have a strong presence at Aintree with as many as six entries. Strong notably is I Am Maximus, despite his recent lack of form. Having won this prestigious event last year, McManus hopes to add a fourth victory to his record following wins with Don’t Push It in 2010 and Minella Times in 2021.
Although Gavin Cromwell confirmed that the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Inothewayurthinkin, would not run at Aintree, I Am Maximus is anticipated to make a go for back-to-back victories. His race preparations have involved careful management from jockey Paul Townend, who will hoping to have him primed for the Grand National.
For those considering long shots, Chantry House and Perceval Legallois are also drawing attention. Chantry House, trained by Nicky Henderson, aims to capture the elusive Grand National title after showing signs of form improvement with a win earlier this year. However, his current odds of 66/1 may deter some. Perceval Legallois, often viewed as a bridesmaid horse, could prove competitive at lower weights but runs off a high mark of 153—a tough challenge in such a grueling race.
As the countdown begins to the Grand National, trainers and jockeys are poised to ensure their horses are in optimal condition. With a record number of entries and the unpredictability that characterizes the Grand National, only time will tell who will emerge as the victor on April 5. Spectators and bettors alike will be watching closely, eager to witness the spectacle of this historic race unfold.
