Expert Picks for the 2026 Randox Grand National

The most prestigious steeplechase event is back, and the Weekend Winners team is here to preview the 2026 Randox Grand National, each selecting their top three contenders for Aintree's main event. A total of 34 runners are set to compete, with 2024 winner I Am Maximus leading the betting alongside Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack, last year's third-place finisher Grangeclare West, and JP McManus' Jagwar, Johnnywho, and Iroko. "My top pick for the Grand National is Imperial Saint, who has an impressive track record at this course, albeit not over the National fences. He performed exceptionally well in a competitive handicap at this meeting last year and seems to be in dire need of a longer trip. I believe he's overpriced. "I'm also backing Johnnywho, the Ultima winner at the Cheltenham Festival, as winners of that race have a remarkable record in the Grand National. The introduction of cheekpieces significantly enhanced his performance, and he ran a remarkable race in the Grand Sefton over these fences. He's also six pounds well-in from his Cheltenham win. "To complete my top three, I'm choosing Iroko, who ran a commendable race in the Grand National last year. He's had a solid season, winning at Ascot before a disappointing outing in the Ultima at Cheltenham. Although he's been raised in the weights, the wind operation has greatly benefited him, and I think he could be a strong contender. "I've identified eight key trends that can help identify the winner of the National, and these horses appear to fit the right profiles. I'm extremely confident in Johnnywho's chances, as he ticks numerous boxes. "My second selection is Final Orders, who, although two years too old, has the ideal rating and weight. He won his last outing and has previously won at Cheltenham in the Cross Country. I expect him to be prominent without leading, and I'm optimistic about his chances. Stay up-to-date with the latest racing news, interviews, and features on your phone. Find out more "My third pick is Spanish Harlem, who, although ticking fewer boxes than the others, is at a massive price and could exceed expectations. He pulled up last time but has had four runs and tends to race prominently, which is ideal for this event. I believe he's underestimated from the Willie Mullins yard. "My first choice is Monty's Star, whose last win was in December 2023, but he's been competing at the highest level recently. His last outing was a respectable effort at the Dublin Racing Festival on ground that didn't seem to suit him. Henry de Bromhead has an excellent record in the race, and this horse fits the right profile to win. He's on a favorable mark, and I can see him shortening in the odds. Check out 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 notable run at Cheltenham. A longer 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 be well-suited for the trip and has been targeted for this race since then. If he can establish a rhythm early on, he has a good chance. 14. Favori De Champdou 23. Perceval Legallois Watch the full Weekend Winners on the At The Races YouTube channel...