Grand National lineup at Aintree confirmed…
The 2025 Grand National at Aintree Racecourse is set for Saturday, April 5, with a start time of 4:00 PM BST. A total of 34 horses will compete in this prestigious race, offering a £1 million prize fund, with £500,000 awarded to the winner.
Defending Champion:
I Am Maximus: Trained by Willie Mullins, I Am Maximus returns to defend his title. Despite a mixed season, he remains a strong contender.
Top Contenders:
Iroko: With improving form and strong stamina, Iroko is considered a leading challenger.
Perceval Legallois: An unexposed horse with notable big-field performances, Perceval Legallois is highly rated among the entrants.
Hewick: A popular ten-year-old who won the King George in 2023, Hewick enters the race with strong credentials.
Notable Entries:
Minella Cocooner: Trained by Willie Mullins, Minella Cocooner has winning experience over marathon trips, including the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown last year.
Stumptown: After a game victory in the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham, Stumptown follows the Tiger Roll route to Aintree.
Minella Indo: A former Gold Cup-winning hero, Minella Indo finished third in this race a year ago and returns at age 12.
Trainer Highlights:
Willie Mullins: Mullins has six entrants, including I Am Maximus, Minella Cocooner, and Iroko, giving him a substantial hand in the race.
Gordon Elliott: Elliott trains several contenders, such as Gerri Colombe, Delta Work, and Conflated, each bringing unique strengths to the field.
Jockey Spotlight:
Rachael Blackmore: The first female jockey to win the Grand National, Blackmore returns to ride Minella Indo, aiming to improve on their third-place finish from 2024.
Race Overview: The Grand National is renowned for its challenging course, featuring over four miles of track and 16 fences. This year’s lineup showcases a blend of seasoned champions and emerging talents, promising an exhilarating race for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
