Expert Picks for Grand National Glory: Imperial Saint and Johnnywho Stand Out

The most anticipated steeplechase event is here, and the Weekend Winners team is back to share their top picks for the 2026 Randox Grand National. A field of 34 runners is set to compete, with I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner, leading the betting alongside Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack, Grangeclare West, and JP McManus' Jagwar, Johnnywho, and Iroko. Imperial Saint is a top choice for the win, boasting impressive course form on the Mildmay course and crying out for a marathon trip, making him an attractive bet. Johnnywho, the Ultima winner at the Cheltenham Festival, is also a strong contender, with past winners of the Ultima having a notable record in the Grand National. His first-time cheekpieces significantly enhanced his performance, and he's well-placed after his Cheltenham win. Iroko, who ran credibly in the Grand National last year, is another promising pick, having performed well this year with a win at Ascot before a disappointing Ultima outing. The wind operation has greatly benefited him, making him a potential dark horse. Eight key trends can help identify the winner, and Johnnywho fits perfectly into these profiles, ticking all the right boxes. Final Orders, despite being two years too old, has the ideal rating and weight, and his recent win is a significant advantage. He's likely to be prominent without leading. Spanish Harlem, although ticking fewer boxes, offers tremendous value at a massive price and could easily outrun his odds, having pulled up last time but consistently racing prominently. Monty's Star is a top pick, having competed at the highest level recently, with his last win in December 2023. Henry de Bromhead has an impressive record in the race, and this horse fits the winning profile, boasting a nice mark. Oscar's Brother, trained by Connor King and owned by JP McManus, could be a compelling story, having shown significant improvement in all starts and a noteworthy run at Cheltenham. Captain Cody, who won the Scottish National, is targeted for this race and should relish the trip, offering a good chance if he can establish an early rhythm.