Menu

Less chance. More data.

Statistics, news, analysis and guidance for informed sports decisions.

ET

Editorial Team

Betting Expert

Key Takeaways

  • 1The Grand National is a 4-mile handicap chase with up to 40 runners, making each-way betting essential for value.
  • 2Favourites win the Grand National only around 15% of the time — this race rewards each-way value hunting.
  • 3Key form factors include weight carried, age (9-11 year-olds win most often), and previous Aintree experience.
  • 4Each-way terms of 1/4 odds for the first four places are standard, with some bookmakers offering five or six places.

The Grand National is the biggest betting race in the world. Run over four miles with 30 fences and up to 40 runners at Aintree, it is a unique test of stamina, jumping ability, and luck. For bettors, it is the ultimate each-way opportunity.

Understanding the Grand National

The race covers 4 miles and 2.5 furlongs over Aintree's famous National fences, including Becher's Brook, The Chair, and Canal Turn. The distance and obstacles make completion rates lower than standard races — typically 60-70% of the field finishes. This makes form analysis different from regular racing.

Key Selection Factors

Age Profile

The ideal Grand National winner is aged 9-11. Younger horses (8 and under) often lack the experience for the unique National fences. Horses aged 12+ rarely have the stamina for four miles at racing pace.

Weight Analysis

Horses carrying 10st 2lb-11st 4lb have the best historical win rate. The top weight (11st 10lb+) has an extremely difficult task over this distance. Lighter-weighted runners in the 10st range frequently outperform market expectations.

Previous Aintree Experience

Horses that have run at Aintree before — particularly over the National fences — have a significant advantage. First-time runners at Aintree face the additional challenge of navigating unfamiliar obstacles at speed.

Going Conditions

Heavy ground slows the pace and increases the stamina demands. Genuine stayers benefit from soft/heavy going. Good-to-firm ground (rare at Aintree in April) produces faster racing and favours classier types.

Each-Way Strategy for the Grand National

With 40 runners, standard each-way terms are 1/4 odds for the first four places. Many bookmakers offer enhanced terms — five or six places — making each-way value even more attractive.

Optimal Each-Way Approach

  1. Select 2-3 horses at 14/1-33/1 each-way
  2. Ensure each selection has different running styles (front-runner, tracker, closer)
  3. Calculate whether the place odds alone offer value against your estimated probability
  4. Use enhanced place terms where available

Form Analysis Checklist

  1. Has the horse run over 3+ miles successfully? — Stamina is non-negotiable
  2. Has the horse jumped well in recent runs? — Falling eliminates any chance
  3. What is the horse's handicap mark trend? — Improving horses are dangerous
  4. How does the trainer's National record look? — Some trainers specialise in this race
  5. Is the jockey experienced in the National? — Aintree knowledge matters

Frequently Asked Questions

?When is the Grand National 2026?
The Grand National is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, typically on the first or second Saturday in April. It is the centrepiece of a three-day festival that also features the Topham Chase and the Aintree Hurdle.
?How many runners are in the Grand National?
A maximum of 40 runners can line up for the Grand National, making it the largest field in British racing. In practice, non-runners can reduce the field to 35-39. The large field is why each-way betting is so popular — with four places at 1/4 odds, there is significant place value.
?What are the best Grand National betting strategies?
Focus on each-way value at prices of 14/1 or longer. Target horses aged 9-11 carrying less than 11st 4lb. Look for previous Aintree form, particularly runners who have completed the National fences before. Avoid horses at the very top and bottom of the weights.
?What weight should Grand National winners carry?
Historically, the optimal weight range for Grand National winners is 10st 2lb to 11st 4lb. Horses carrying more than 11st 6lb rarely win — only a handful have done so in the past 30 years. Lighter-weighted horses get into the race as reserves and can offer huge each-way value.
?Is the Grand National a handicap race?
Yes, the Grand National is a handicap steeplechase. The BHA handicapper assigns weights based on each horse's official rating, with better-rated horses carrying more weight. This is designed to make the race competitive, which is why outsiders frequently place.
X (Twitter)FacebookLinkedIn

Bet Responsibly

Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, get help: BeGambleAware, GamStop