2026 Belmont Stakes: Post Positions, Contenders, and Fair Odds
The 2026 Belmont Stakes, the final jewel of the Triple Crown, is set to take place on June 6 at Saratoga Race Course. With the post-position...
Expert Selections:: Telegraph Sport's experts offer diverse picks for the Grand National win, including Hyland (Marcus Armytage), Perceval Legallois (Marlborough, Tom Ward), Intense Raffles (Charlie Brooks), and Stumptown (Tom Morgan, Bob Champion).
Defending Champion:: I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and owned by JP McManus, is back to defend his title but carries the top weight (11st 12lb), a significant challenge.
Trainer Form:: Gavin Cromwell fields strong contenders like Perceval Legallois and Stumptown. Nicky Henderson seeks his first National win with Hyland. Willie Mullins, despite dominating Day 1, has multiple runners across the festival, including the defending champion.
Ground Conditions:: The Aintree course is reportedly drying out, potentially favouring horses preferring good ground, like Hyland.
Why This Matters:: These insights provide valuable perspectives for anyone placing bets or simply following the drama of the Grand National, highlighting key horses and potential factors influencing the race outcome.
With just a day until the Grand National, several key contenders have emerged based on expert analysis.
Marcus Armytage tips Hyland, trained by Nicky Henderson. He notes Henderson's long quest for a National win and highlights Hyland's novice status, light weight, and preference for drying ground. Survival over the early fences is key.
Marlborough and Tom Ward both favour Perceval Legallois, trained by Gavin Cromwell. They point to his progressive form over fences, particularly a strong win at Leopardstown, suggesting he's unexposed over marathon trips and well-weighted. His breeding suggests he will stay the distance.
Charlie Brooks opts for Intense Raffles, trained by Tom Gibney. The plan has seemingly focused on this race since his Irish Grand National win. His handicap mark was protected, and a recent second-place finish at Fairyhouse suggests good form, provided he stays the extra distance.
Tom Morgan selects Stumptown, another from the Gavin Cromwell yard, citing consistent performances and ability under pressure. He notes an AI simulator also gives Stumptown a high chance.
Other notable mentions include Vanillier, Beauport, and Hewick featuring in the first-four predictions. Defending champion I Am Maximus remains a strong contender, endorsed by owner JP McManus, though the high weight is a historical hurdle only overcome by greats like Red Rum.
Who is the favourite for the Grand National 2025?
While odds fluctuate, defending champion I Am Maximus is highly regarded, alongside horses frequently tipped by experts like Perceval Legallois, Stumptown, and Intense Raffles.
What are some key factors to consider when picking a horse?
Stamina (staying the 4m 2.5f distance), jumping ability (navigating the unique fences), current form, weight carried, and ground preference are crucial factors.
Which trainers have strong contenders?
Willie Mullins (I Am Maximus), Gavin Cromwell (Perceval Legallois, Stumptown), Nicky Henderson (Hyland), and Tom Gibney (Intense Raffles) are trainers with well-fancied runners.
Several horses have strong backing from racing experts, offering a starting point for your own research or sweepstake picks.
Consider factors like the drying ground and the significant weight carried by defending champion I Am Maximus.
Trainers like Gavin Cromwell and Willie Mullins have multiple promising entries across the festival.
Remember the Grand National is famously unpredictable, adding to the excitement.
Do you agree with the experts' tips? Who is your pick for the Grand National 2025? Let us know!
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