Grand National Runners 2026: Mullins Leads Early Entries

Introduction: Why the Grand National Runners Matter

The list of grand national runners is one of the most watched pieces of information in jump racing. The Grand National is a unique test of stamina, jumping and strategy, and the early entry list gives owners, trainers, punters and racegoers an initial view of who might contest the world-famous handicap. Tracking runners early helps spot trends in trainers’ approaches, identify likely favourites and narrow a field that often begins with more than a hundred names.

Main updates and context

Entries and trainers

Willie Mullins, who trained the Grand National winner in each of the last two years, has made a significant impact on the early entries for 2026. Mullins has entered fifteen horses at the initial stage, notably including both recent winners, Nick Rockett and I Am Maximus. Traditionally there are over a hundred initial entries; these are progressively whittled down to the final 34 runners on race day.

Favourites and form pointers

Early lists and market attention already single out several possibles among the leading names. Listed favourites in early coverage include I Am Maximus, Grangeclare West, Iroko, Haiti Couleurs and Nick Rockett. While many will insist that picking a Grand National winner is a lottery and that any of the final 34 could triumph on the day, long-term patterns across 40 years of winners can help narrow the field. Age is highlighted as one of the better indicators of success, and historically winners have not usually carried very large weights to victory.

How the final list will be confirmed

The final 34 runners for the 2026 Grand National will not be confirmed until three days before the race, following final declarations. Our coverage will update the full list of grand national runners regularly in the run-up to the race. From the Friday before the event we will confirm the final list as entries are cut to the declared field and provide statistical context to help those making selections.

Conclusion: What readers should take away

Early entries give a valuable snapshot but are only the start. With a strong Mullins contingent and a handful of early market names, attention will sharpen as declarations approach. Punters and followers should watch trainer and jockey records, age and weight trends, and consult updated runner lists and statistical research as the field is finalised three days before the race.