The waiting’s over, and the list is in. 34 runners have officially made the cut for the 2025 Grand National, with four reserves on standby just in case any late drama unfolds.
It’s that time of year when dreams start to feel real for connections, punters start second-guessing their picks, and everyone frantically Googles which horse their aunty backed last year.
While the big names are all present and correct, a few fancied runners didn’t make it past the final declarations, and more than one eyebrow has been raised.
So, who’s lining up at the tape…and who’s been left watching from the stable door? Let’s take a look.
Runners Confirmed For Grand National 2025
With 90 initial entries, the process of narrowing down to the final 34 runners has been a meticulous journey, involving weight allocations, three scratching deadlines, and intense speculation.
Additionally, four reserves are on standby to step in should any confirmed runners withdraw before 1pm tomorrow, Friday, April 4th.
So here they are.
Odds listed on this page are taken from Betfred on 05/04/2025. Check the odds with your Bookmaker before placing a bet, as fluctuations occur. Full Terms and Conditions for the promotional bet offers can be found on the respective websites – read them before you sign up.
Who Missed The Cut?
Given that there were no defections at the last confirmation stage today, the four reserves now include:
- Shakem Up’Arry
- Roi Mage
- Favori De Champdou
- Fantastic Lady
Unfortunately, that means Yeah Man from Gavin Cromwell, Midlands Grand National winner, Mr Vango, from Sara Bradstock, and the 2024 Scottish National winner, Macdermott, from Willie Mullins have all missed out on a place in 2025.
The Favourites: Iroko, I Am Maximus, and Stumptown
Right now, we have a three-way tie for the honour of Grand National favourite.
Most bookmakers are hedging their bets with Iroko, I Am Maximus, and Stumptown all on 8/1 with Betfred.
JP McManus owns two of them, the third is trained by Gavin Cromwell who is still basking in the glory of his recent Gold Cup win with Inothewayurthinkin – also owned by McManus.
Basically, whatever way you cut the dice, this is JP McManus’s year and he intends to cap it with his fourth win in the National!
But we all know that nothing is ever that simple. So, before we scour the betting markets for a cheeky outsider that could potentially boost our coffers, let’s take each of the three favourites in turn.
Iroko
Trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, Iroko is a seven-year-old with a growing reputation.
Best known for his victory in the Martin Pipe Conditional at Cheltenham in 2023, he has yet to run in a Grand National but fits many of the key trends for success at Aintree.
His stamina and jumping ability make him a strong contender.
I Am Maximus
Last year’s winner returns to defend his crown under trainer Willie Mullins.
The nine-year-old triumphed in 2024 with an impressive performance that saw him finish over seven lengths clear of his nearest rival.
However, he carries more weight this year – a factor that could make his repeat bid more challenging.
No horse since Red Rum has won carrying top weight…
Stumptown
Trained by Gavin Cromwell, Stumptown is another standout contender.
He arrives at Aintree fresh from winning the Cheltenham Cross Country Chase in March and will be partnered with jockey Keith Donoghue as the duo bid to do the double – just like Tiger Roll.
Though he lacks previous Grand National experience, his recent form has made him one of the most heavily backed horses in the field.
Long Shots at Triple-Digit Odds
From the most fancied to, well, the least fancied – though not by everybody!
Several long shots are set to line up on Saturday with odds of 100/1 or more. That doesn’t mean they can’t win or place; it just means their chances aren’t as good.
Yet, we all know that anything can happen on the day, so maybe these underdogs will have their moment in the spotlight!
Royale Pagaille
Despite his lengthy odds, Royale Pagaille brings a wealth of experience to Aintree.
The ten-year-old has shown flashes of brilliance in staying chases but faces an uphill battle against younger and faster rivals.
Idas Boy
Another outsider at 100/1, Idas Boy has struggled to find consistent form this season but could surprise if conditions suit him on race day.
Hitman
Priced at 100/1, Hitman is a talented horse who has yet to fulfill his early promise over fences. His connections will hope he can find his best form on Saturday.
Celebre D’Allen
At 125/1, this thirteen-year-old veteran is one of the oldest runners in the field. While his best days may be behind him, his presence adds an intriguing dynamic to this year’s lineup.
What Lies Ahead
With just two days until the big race, excitement is reaching fever pitch among racing fans worldwide.
The confirmed runners represent a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars vying for glory over Aintree’s famous fences.
As always with the Grand National, unpredictability reigns supreme, and favourites can falter while outsiders may rise to claim an unlikely victory.
The final lineup promises a thrilling spectacle as these equine athletes tackle one of horse racing’s most challenging tests.
With the runners confirmed, whether it’s I Am Maximus aiming for back-to-back wins or an unheralded outsider seizing their moment in history, Saturday’s race is set to deliver drama befitting its legendary status.
BETFRED
