Imperial Saint Tipped for Grand National Success

The world's most prestigious steeplechase has arrived once again. The Weekend Winners team is back to preview the 2026 Randox Grand National, with each member selecting their top three contenders for Aintree's flagship event. A maximum field of 34 runners has assembled, led by 2024 winner I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend. Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack and last year's third-place finisher Grangeclare West are also prominent in the market, alongside JP McManus' trio of Jagwar, Johnnywho, and Iroko. "I'm backing Imperial Saint to win the Grand National this year, given his impressive course form on the Mildmay course, not over the National fences. He excelled in a competitive handicap at this meeting last year and seems to be crying out for a marathon trip, making him an attractive bet at his current price. "I also want Johnnywho on my side, as winners of the Ultima have a strong record in this race, with Corach Rambler being a recent example. The first-time cheekpieces seemed to have a positive effect on him at the Cheltenham Festival, and he ran a great race in the Grand Sefton over these fences. He's also well-weighted, being six pounds below his Cheltenham win. "To complete my top three, I'm backing Iroko, who ran credibly in this race last year. Although he disappointed in the Ultima at Cheltenham, he's had a good year, winning at Ascot, and the wind operation seems to have helped him significantly. I believe he could be a strong contender. "Using eight key trends to identify the winner, I'm confident in Johnnywho's chances, as he fits the profile perfectly, ticking many boxes. My second selection is Final Orders, who may be two years too old but has the ideal rating, weight, and comes into the race on the back of a win. He's also shown his ability to win at Cheltenham in the Cross Country and will be prominent without leading. I'm optimistic about his prospects. Never miss the latest racing news, interviews, and features on your phone. Find out more. "My third pick is Spanish Harlem, who ticks fewer boxes but is a massive price and could exceed expectations. Although he pulled up last time, he's had four runs, consistently racing prominently, which is ideal for this race. I think he's underestimated from the Willie Mullins yard. "My top selection is Monty's Star. Although his last win was in December 2023, he's been competing at the highest level recently. His last run was a fair effort at the Dublin Racing Festival, where the ground conditions didn't suit him. Henry de Bromhead has a strong record in this race, and this horse fits the right profile to win. He's on a nice mark, and I can see him shortening in the betting. See the latest horse racing news, interviews, and features from Sky Sports Racing. "Oscar's Brother could be a fascinating story in the Grand National, with trainer Connor King having only two horses in training, including this one, owned by JP McManus. He's shown improvement in all his starts and had a good run at Cheltenham. A step up in trip could bring out the best in him. "My third selection is Captain Cody, who beat me in the Scottish National last year. He seems to relish the trip and has been targeted for this race since then. If he can get into a rhythm early on, he has a good chance. "Other notable contenders include Favori De Champdou and Perceval Legallois. Watch Weekend Winners in full on the At The Races YouTube channel.