Supercomputer Forecasts Grangeclare West as Grand National 2026 Champion
While bookmakers have installed I Am Maximus as the favorite for the Grand National on Saturday, a sophisticated supercomputer model has delivered a surprising alternative prediction. By analyzing the traits of every Grand National winner from 1992 to 2025, the computer has compared these characteristics to the 2026 contenders, assigning scores based on similarity to past victors.
Race Simulation Reveals Winning Probabilities
Using these scores in a detailed race simulation, the supercomputer has calculated winning probabilities for each horse. The results indicate that Grangeclare West, trained by Willie Mullins, holds an 11.42% chance of crossing the finish line first at Aintree. This would mark a fourth Grand National victory for the legendary Irish trainer, drawing him level with Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell as the most successful trainers in the race's history.
Grangeclare West narrowly edges out stablemate and 2024 winner I Am Maximus, who is given an 11.36% probability. The Irish horse will be ridden by Patrick Mullins, aiming to become just the tenth jockey to win the steeplechase in successive years, following his victory 12 months ago with Nick Rockett.
Notable Absences and Top Contenders
In a twist of fate, there will be no repeat victory for Nick Rockett, who was forced to withdraw from the National on Thursday morning due to a cough. Before this unexpected withdrawal, the nine-year-old was assigned a 2.41% chance of defending his crown.
The supercomputer's top five predictions are as follows:
- Grangeclare West — 11.42%
- I Am Maximus — 11.36%
- Jagwar — 10.03%
- Panic Attack — 9.42%
- Captain Cody — 8.65%
Additional horses in the top ten include Iroko, Oscars Brother, Johnnywho, Monty’s Star, and Haiti Couleurs, with probabilities ranging from 8.17% to 3.71%.
Race Details and Safety Measures
The 2026 Grand National will feature a reduced field of 34 horses, down from the traditional 40, a change implemented in 2024 to enhance safety. The race consists of two laps around the Aintree course, covering a total distance of four miles and two-and-a-half furlongs. Runners and riders must navigate 30 fences—16 in the first circuit and 14 in the second.
The event is scheduled to start at 4pm on Saturday and will be broadcast live on ITV1 and Racing TV. For the complete list of predictions and more information, visit GrandNational.org.uk.
