The Grand National is the pinnacle of British jump racing, a test of endurance, skill, and sheer determination that captivates millions each year.
As the 2025 edition approaches, attention turns to the leading contenders from this side of the Irish Sea, with trainers and connections eager to see their charges etch their names into racing history.
While recent renewals have seen Irish dominance, British trainers are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of glory at Aintree.
In this article, we look in-depth at Britain’s top hopes for the world’s most famous steeplechase, examining their form and chances of claiming the coveted prize.
Can the hosts rise to the occasion and fend off the Irish challenge for just the second time since 2018? Let’s assess the British Grand National runners to find out.
Iroko – 25/1
Coming in at 25/1, Iroko is one of Britain’s leading contenders—and could land esteemed owner JP McManus a record fourth victory in the Grand National.
Trained by the partnership of Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero in Chesire, the seven-year-old hasn’t had the best of starts to the campaign.
After finishing second in the Grade 1 Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree on his final outing last season, Iroko was backed for the Betfair Exchange Graduation Chase at Haydock on reappearance.
However, he was just held by the Kim Bailey-trained Trelawne and had a nightmare next time out—falling at the first in another Graduation Chase at Ascot after going off as favourite.
It’s been far from an ideal start, but he has a chance to bounce back in the upcoming Betfair Exchange Handicap Chase at Cheltenham Trials Day.
Beauport – 25/1
Nigel Twiston-Davies knows what it takes to train a Grand National winner, scoring in the prestigious race twice in 1998 and 2002, and Beauport could land him a hat-trick over two decades later.
While the nine-year-old only has three wins in 11 starts over the larger obstacles, his victory in the Midlands Grand National last March may indicate he could have a chance at Aintree.
Pulled up next time out, he’s returned to form this season—winning the Berkshire National at Ascot on reappearance in November.
Beauport made the switch back to timber for the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle last month and was a respectable third behind Crambo.
However, after winning two Nationals already, Beauport’s owner, Bryan Burrough, has made it clear he wants to go to Aintree in April.
Kandoo Kid – 25/1
One of Britain’s most successful trainers, it’s been 13 years since Paul Nicholls enjoyed his maiden Grand National success with Neptune Collonges in 2012.
The 14-time British Champion Trainer will have his sights seton a second victory this year, with the consistent Kandoo Kid potentially set to represent Team Ditcheat.
After placing in three Graded races last season, including the Topham Handicap Chase over the Grand National fences, the nine-year-old kicked off this campaign with a win in the Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Newbury.
Speaking afterward, Nicholls said: “I think he’d be a great type for Aintree. He’s been round there once before and was brilliant. He’s got the National written all over him and that’s what we’ll train him for.”
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