Grand National 2025: Confirmed Runners and Top Contenders

In-Depth Analysis

## A Look at the Leading Contenders

With the Grand National 2025 fast approaching, the final field of 34 runners has been confirmed, setting the stage for a thrilling contest at Aintree. Last year's winner, **I Am Maximus**, aims for a repeat victory under the guidance of Willie Mullins. However, carrying an 8lb higher mark than his 2024 win and having missed an intended prep run in the Bobbyjo Chase raises questions about his readiness, though dismissing a Mullins-trained champion is always risky.

The withdrawal of the strongly-fancied Inothewayurthinkin has significantly altered the betting landscape. Trainer Gavin Cromwell opted to bypass Aintree, prioritizing the seven-year-old's long-term development. This decision has paved the way for **Intense Raffles**, trained by Tom Gibney, to step up as the current favourite. An Irish Grand National winner, Intense Raffles possesses the stamina and jumping ability required, although potential concerns linger about his performance on the likely less testing ground expected at Aintree.

Willie Mullins fields a strong team beyond the defending champion. **Nick Rockett**, winner of the Bobbyjo Chase (beating Intense Raffles who conceded weight), is considered a strong contender and potentially better treated than the favourite. **Minella Cocooner**, despite recent modest results in top chases, has seen his handicap mark decrease and could be peaking for this spring target.

Gavin Cromwell still holds a strong hand despite withdrawing the favourite. **Stumptown** enters in excellent form following cross-country success, though past quirks are noted. **Vanillier**, a runner-up two years ago, needs to replicate that form, while **Perceval Legallois** impressed with a strong finish in the Paddy Power Chase and could be hitting peak form.

British hopes largely rest on **Iroko**, trained by Oliver Green-Armytage & Noel George. His second-place finish to Inothewayurthinkin at Aintree last year looks increasingly strong, but questions remain about his proven stamina over the extended trip. Other British entries like **Beauport** (Midlands National winner) and **Monbeg Genius** are considered potential each-way chances.

## Confirmed Runners List (Jockeys TBC)

1. Am Maximus 2. Royale Pagaille 3. Nick Rockett 4. L'homme Presse 5. Grangeclare West 6. Hewick 7. Minella Indo 8. Appreciate It 9. Capodanno 10. Minella Cocooner 11. Conflated 12. Stumptown 13. Hitman 14. Beauport 15. Bravemansgame 16. Chantry House 17. Threeunderthrufive 18. Perceval Legallois 19. Kandoo Kid 20. Iroko 21. Intense Raffles 22. Senior Chief 23. Idas Boy 24. Mr Incredible 25. Fil Dor 26. Broadway Boy 27. Coko Beach 28. Farouk d'Alene 29. Stay Away Fay 30. Velvet Elvis 31. Minella Drama 32. Meetingofthewaters 33. Monbeg Genius 34. Vanillier

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FAQ

Takeaways

• The Grand National field is set at 34 runners for the April 5th race.
• Key favourite Inothewayurthinkin is out, making Intense Raffles the new market leader.
• Defending champion I Am Maximus returns but faces a tougher challenge with a higher weight.
• Trainers Willie Mullins and Gavin Cromwell saddle multiple strong contenders.
• British hopes include Iroko, but stamina over the distance is a query.
• Keep an eye on jockey announcements closer to the race date.

Discussion

Who do you think will win the Grand National 2025? Will I Am Maximus defend his title, or will a new champion emerge? Let us know your thoughts!

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