2026 Grand National confirmations: 49 remain as week of the big race arrives

Confirmations have been made for the 2026 Grand National, with 49 horses still left at the five-day stage.

Spillane’s Tower looks an unlikely runner with the Bowl earlier in the week prioritised. However, the other 48 could well be intended runners, leaving a nervous wait for those narrowly outside the top 34 guaranteed a run.

The main story from the confirmations is that JP McManus’ team has grown ever stronger. Now number 33 on the list, Johnnywho is guaranteed a run for the O’Neills. The nine-year-old gamely held off Jagwar in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival and is therefore 6lb well-in at Aintree according to the handicapper.

All of the big names stood their ground towards the top of the handicap. I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett both head the weights as they seek their own place in history as two-time winners. Stablemates abound though, with Willie Mullins guaranteed nine runners in the 34 should all be declared. Among those is Grangeclare West, who is vying for favouritism.

The leading British fancies all remain in contention too. Haiti Couleurs will look to overcome his Gold Cup flop. Meanwhile both of Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero’s representatives, Jagwar and Iroko, will head to Aintree.

Grand National Confirmations 2026