The spotlight returns to Aintree Racecourse as the 2025 Randox Grand National prepares to thrill spectators on Saturday, April 5, with defending champion I Am Maximus aiming to etch his name into the history books with back-to-back victories. Trained by the renowned Willie Mullins and owned by legendary racing figure JP McManus, I Am Maximus leads a competitive field of 34 runners in what promises to be a blockbuster renewal of the world’s most iconic steeplechase.
Mullins and McManus Target More Glory
Last year, I Am Maximus claimed the National in emphatic style, winning by seven and a half lengths. If successful again, he would become the first top-weighted horse since the great Red Rum in the 1970s to win the race. Mullins, whose yard remains in red-hot form, has expressed full confidence in the gelding’s fitness and condition heading into the contest.
McManus, meanwhile, seeks a record fourth Grand National victory as an owner and has reinforced his hand with other strong contenders like Iroko and Perceval Legallois.
Minella Indo and Blackmore Reunite
Adding to the intrigue is Minella Indo, the 2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, who will be partnered by Rachael Blackmore—the only female jockey to win the Grand National, having done so in 2021 aboard Minella Times. Trained by Henry de Bromhead, Minella Indo represents class and experience, making him a serious threat.
New Safety Measures Shape the Race
This year’s edition will be the second since safety changes were introduced in 2024. The maximum field size was reduced from 40 to 34, a standing start was reinstated, and modifications to fence height and approach distances were implemented to enhance welfare standards. These changes proved successful last year, resulting in no fallers and a record number of 21 finishers—the most since 1992.
Romance and Riches: Hewick’s Rags-to-Riches Story
The 2025 field showcases a vibrant mix of proven veterans, rising stars, and bargain buys. Among them is Hewick, a rags-to-riches story who was purchased for just £800 and went on to win the prestigious King George VI Chase in 2023. Trained by the charismatic John ‘Shark’ Hanlon, Hewick carries the hopes of many romantics who yearn for another fairytale finish.
Cromwell’s Triple Threat
Irish trainer Gavin Cromwell presents a formidable trio: Stumptown, a Cheltenham Festival winner; Vanillier, last year’s runner-up; and Perceval Legallois, who has been in scintillating form this season. Cromwell could join an elite group of trainers to have won both the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in the same season.
Bowen’s Title Bid and Elliott’s Army
Not to be overlooked is Three Card Brag, trained by Gordon Elliott and set to be ridden by Sean Bowen. Bowen is on the brink of becoming the British champion jockey—a feat made more remarkable by the revelation that he is allergic to horse hair. Elliott, a multiple Grand National winner himself, is also represented by a strong supporting cast.
British Challenge Led by Nicholls and Twiston-Davies
The British challenge is led by Paul Nicholls, who is hunting for his second Grand National crown with five runners: Kandoo Kid, Bravemansgame, Threeunderthrufive, Hitman, and Stay Away Fay. Meanwhile, Beauport, trained by dual National winner Nigel Twiston-Davies, will carry the colours of Bryan Burrough—whose Corbiere famously won the 1983 edition under Jenny Pitman, the first female trainer to win the race.
Weather, Wagering, and Wide Open Odds
Bookmakers expect more than £150 million to be wagered on this year’s race, underscoring its immense popularity. The going is anticipated to be good to soft, with Aintree officials having watered the course under a forecast of sunny skies and temperatures ranging from 16°C to 18°C.
When and Where to Watch
The big race is scheduled to start at 16:00 BST, and full coverage, including live commentary and analysis, will be provided by BBC Radio 5 Live, along with racecards, results, and updates available on the BBC Sport website and app.
Expert Predictions and Outside Picks
In the buildup, racing experts have offered their predictions. BBC’s Gina Bryce favours I Am Maximus to defend his title, followed by Perceval Legallois and Hewick. Other pundits have tipped Vanillier, Iroko, and Threeunderthrufive as strong contenders for podium finishes.
No Protests Expected Am This Year
Off the track, protest group Animal Rising has confirmed it does not plan to disrupt this year’s event, although it continues to oppose the race. This follows the controversial 2023 edition, which saw delays and arrests after protestors stormed the course.
Aintree Awaits Another Grand Chapter
With anticipation reaching fever pitch and a field brimming with talent, heartwarming stories, and championship aspirations, the 2025 Grand National is set to captivate the racing world once again. Whether history will repeat or new legends will be born, Aintree is ready for another unforgettable day of drama and glory.
