What This Guide Covers About the Grand National 2025
This comprehensive overview dives into the world-renowned Grand National, highlighting the history and cultural appeal of the event, profiling the front-runners for the 2025 race, and discussing the social impact the Grand National holds in the UK and beyond. You’ll discover:
– Insights into the storied heritage and enduring significance of the Grand National.
– Detailed profiles of the main horses, trainers, and jockeys expected to make headlines in 2025, along with expert predictions.
– Exploration of the Grand National’s unique role in shaping British sporting, betting, and social culture.
What Makes the Grand National Unique?
The Grand National stands as horse racing’s ultimate test, capturing the imaginations of millions across the globe. Held annually at the illustrious Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, this steeplechase spans over four miles and is notorious for its complex fences and the punishing endurance required from both horse and jockey.
Renowned for unpredictability, the Grand National is as much about tactical acumen and resilience as speed, challenging each entry with 30 formidable jumps set over a course requiring both courage and stamina.
The 2025 edition, set for April 5th, is once again attracting fervent interest from punters and race fans, as top horses and seasoned jockeys vie for a coveted place in racing folklore. Every pairing brings its own signature strengths, making for a diverse and unpredictable race that draws viewing figures and betting action unlike any other.
When and Where Does the Grand National Take Place?
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM—the starting whistle for the highlight of Britain’s jump racing season. The Grand National is the centerpiece of a vibrant three-day festival at Aintree, kicking off with Grand Opening Day on April 3, followed by the always popular Ladies Day.
Few races can match the Grand National’s reach. The event is broadcast to around 600 million spectators in over 140 countries and sees about 150,000 people descend on Aintree over the festival. Thirty-four horses will line up to tackle 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, facing 14 distinct obstacles—each leapt twice except for the infamous Chair and Water Jump. The scope and spectacle ensure the Grand National remains the sport’s most exhilarating marathon.
Top 10 Horses to Watch in the 2025 Grand National
Here’s a closer look at this year’s chief contenders, their backgrounds, and what makes them stand out:
1. Iroko
– Odds: 8/1
– Trainers: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero
– Owner: John P McManus
A promising younger horse at seven years old, Iroko boasts a key win in the 2023 Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham. He also claimed second at the Aintree Grand National Festival’s Grade 1 Mildmay Novices’ Chase in 2024—a valuable showing on this tricky course. Though not always consistent, Iroko’s steady jumping and stamina give him strong credentials for one of the world’s most challenging tests.
2. Stumptown
– Odds: 8/1
– Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
– Owner: Furze Bush Syndicate
Stumptown has generated plenty of buzz after triumphing in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham in March 2025. The horse’s adaptability is underscored by wins at Punchestown and previous Cheltenham handicaps. Many fans draw parallels with Tiger Roll, the double Grand National winner, thanks to Stumptown’s recent festival form and proven endurance over unconventional courses.
3. Intense Raffles
– Odds: 9/1
– Trainer: Thomas Gibney
– Owners: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
Intense Raffles shot up the rankings after victory in the Irish Grand National on Easter Monday 2024. Proving durability and a knack for tough distances, he followed with second in the Bobbyjo Chase, further bolstering his reputation. His profile matches that of successful National horses—expect him to be a real threat at Aintree.
4. I Am Maximus
– Odds: 11/1
– Trainer: Willie Mullins
– Owner: J P McManus
As the reigning Grand National champion, I Am Maximus returns to defend his crown after a dominant performance in 2024. Known for exceptional jumping and consistency—winning four of twelve chase starts—he’s well placed to make a bid for back-to-back victories despite this year’s expanded field.
5. Hewick
– Odds: 11/1
– Trainer: John Joseph Hanlon
– Owner: T J McDonald
At ten, Hewick brings a wealth of experience. Not only did he win the 2022 Galway Plate, but he also landed top honors in the 2023 US Grand National Hurdle Stakes. His versatility over a variety of tracks and distances makes him an intriguing outsider for the Aintree showpiece.
6. Vanillier
– Odds: 14/1
– Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
– Owner: Mrs H M Keaveney
Vanillier combines consistency with crucial race experience: he finished a strong second in the 2023 Grand National and took the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham back in 2021. His proven finishing power in staying events makes him a reliable contender.
7. Perceval Legallois
– Odds: 16/1
– Trainer: Gavin Cromwell
– Owner: J P McManus
Emerging after a win in the 2023 Paddy Power Chase, this eight-year-old displays both stamina and potential. While perhaps a year away from his prime, Perceval Legallois is registering consistent performances and could be a lively outsider in this year’s contest.
8. Kandoo Kid
– Odds: 20/1
– Trainer: Paul Nicholls
– Owner: Michael Geoghegan
Progressing fast, Kandoo Kid impressed with victory in the Coral Cup after a substantial layoff, showing he can tackle long and demanding races. With a tactical approach and increasing stamina, he’s a compelling pick among the less-favored horses.
9. Hyland
– Odds: 20/1
– Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill
– Owner: The Ten From Seven
Hyland may not have major titles yet, but this steady performer has won over varying conditions and is improving with age. His adaptability and stamina suggest he’s one to follow as a potential long shot in the race.
10. Meetingofthewaters
– Odds: 22/1
– Trainer: Willie Mullins
– Owner: J P MacManus
Often seen in the mix at major festivals, Meetingofthewaters took the Guinness Handicap Chase at Galway in 2023. Though not yet a household name, consistent form over staying chases indicates potential for a strong showing if everything falls into place.
Grand National 2025: Preview and Key Observations
With the 2025 Grand National field stacked with proven stayers and rising stars, bettors face one of the most unpredictable renewals in recent memory. Horses like Stumptown and I Am Maximus lead the conversation, but early odds reveal little consensus among the bookmakers—the competition is wide open.
Iroko stands out for recent form, while under-the-radar picks such as Hewick or Vanillier offer potential value. Regular shifts in betting markets reflect just how competitive the field is this year.
For those looking to wager, consider:
– Reviewing each horse’s course experience and noted stamina.
– Monitoring shifts in trainer and jockey form in the lead-up.
– Keeping an eye on market moves and any last-minute changes.
The Grand National remains Britain’s most storied steeplechase, both for its dramatic spectacle and the way it grips the sporting nation each spring. Whether you’re an experienced bettor or a casual fan, the 2025 race promises yet another chapter of excitement, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
