Expert Picks for Grand National Glory: Imperial Saint and Johnnywho Lead the Charge

The world's most renowned steeplechase is back, and the Weekend Winners team is here to provide an in-depth preview of the 2026 Randox Grand National, with each member nominating their top three contenders for the prestigious Aintree showpiece. A maximum field of 34 runners is set to compete, led by 2024 winner I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend. Other prominent contenders include Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack, last year's third-place finisher Grangeclare West, and JP McManus' trio of Jagwar, Johnnywho, and Iroko. One of our experts is backing Imperial Saint to win, citing his impressive course form on the Mildmay course and his suitability for a marathon trip. Johnnywho, the Ultima winner at the Cheltenham Festival, is also fancied due to his excellent record in this event, with Corach Rambler having previously won the Grand National after claiming the Ultima. The first-time use of cheekpieces seemed to have a positive impact on Johnnywho, and he is now six pounds well-in compared to his Cheltenham win. To complete the trio, Iroko is selected, having run a creditable race in last year's Grand National and performing well this year, including a win at Ascot before a disappointing outing in the Ultima at Cheltenham. The wind operation has apparently helped Iroko, making him a potential contender. Another expert has identified eight key trends to help find the Grand National winner and believes Johnnywho perfectly fits the profile, ticking numerous boxes. Final Orders is the second selection, despite being two years too old, as he has the ideal rating, weight, and was a winner in his last outing, having also triumphed at Cheltenham in the Cross Country event. Spanish Harlem is the third pick, offering a massive price and the potential to outrun his odds, having pulled up last time but having had four runs and racing prominently, which is ideal for this event. The first selection for another expert is Monty's Star, who has been competing at the highest level recently, with his last win dating back to December 2023. Henry de Bromhead has an excellent record in the Grand National, and this horse fits the right profiles to win, having a nice mark and potential to shorten. Oscar's Brother could be a surprise story in the Grand National, with trainer Connor King having only two horses in training, including this JP McManus-owned contender, who has shown steady improvement in all his starts and could benefit from the step up in trip. Captain Cody is the third selection, having won the Scottish National last year and seemingly suited to the trip, with a good chance if he can establish a rhythm early on. Other contenders include Favori De Champdou and Perceval Legallois.