GRAND NATIONAL FESTIVAL - DAY 1 (THURSDAY)

It's the opening day of the 2026 Grand National Festival from Aintree and pundit Rory Paddock previews all the action in Liverpool. 13:45 AINTREE

Both Maestro Conti and Winston Junior arrive on the back of solid runner-up efforts at Cheltenham and command obvious respect on bare form. However, Selma De Vary shaped much better than the result suggests when finishing fourth, just behind Maestro Conti, and was arguably an unlucky loser that day. The switch to Aintree’s flatter track looks a major plus for the Willie Mullins-trained filly, and with the benefit of a valuable mares’ allowance, she is taken to reverse the form.

Minella Study, who split the principals at Cheltenham, is another to consider, while Gordon Elliott’s Mange Tout appeals as one who could get involved without surprising.

SELMA DE VARY (WIN)

14:20 AINTREE

Lulamba failed to land a blow in the Arkle but this represents a notable drop in class compared to that Cheltenham assignment. Conditions here should play more to his strengths, and a return to form looks likely in calmer waters.

For those seeking alternatives, Jax Junior and Koktail Divin both bring consistent profiles and look the most plausible candidates to chase home the favourite.

LULAMBA (WIN)

14:55 AINTREE

Protektorat has been a tremendous servant and arrives in resurgent form after back-to-back wins, but this represents a deeper contest and he may find younger legs too strong.

Jango Baie hasn’t been overly prolific this term, yet his Gold Cup second stands out as the strongest piece of form on offer. While he was well held at Cheltenham, this is a less demanding race and he looks capable of bouncing back.

Irish challengers Impaire Et Passe and Spillane’s Tower add further depth, with a slight preference for the Mullins runner as the main danger.

JANGO BAIE (WIN)

15:30 AINTREE

The Foxhunters over the National fences is always a highlight, and this year’s renewal sees Barton Snow and It’s On The Line renew their Cheltenham rivalry after finishing first and second in the Challenge Cup. Both are prominent in the betting alongside Unexpected Party, who arrives on a two-timer and remains open to improvement. Barton Snow, having already proven himself at the highest level in this sphere, is taken to follow up.

At bigger prices, Gaboriot is interesting given his solid course record and a capable rider booked, while Thunder Rock arrives in form and has the class to be competitive in this company.

BARTON SNOW (WIN)

GABORIOT (E/W)

THUNDER ROCK (E/W)

16:05 AINTREE

A small but competitive field, and despite limited each-way terms, Alexei makes plenty of appeal at the prices. He was staying on well before a late mistake last time and this step up in trip could unlock further improvement.

Brighterdaysahead and The New Lion bring top-class hurdle form into the race, with a marginal preference for the former to come out best of that pair.

Potters Charm’s course form and Golden Ace’s past top-level success also demand respect. A tricky contest, but Alexei is worth a chance at the odds.

ALEXEI (E/W)

16:40 AINTREE

Sans Bruit has dominated this race in recent years and returns in search of a hat-trick. This has clearly been the target once again, and his previous performances suggest he will be primed to deliver. As the likely favourite, he sets the standard and is hard to oppose.

Inthepocket and Javert Allen appear the most credible threats if the favourite underperforms, but both will need to step up.

SANS BRUIT (WIN)

17:15 AINTREE

A competitive finale with no standout Irish dominance, making this an open-looking contest. Martini Majesty, unbeaten so far, made a striking impression on debut in what looked a useful race. Despite showing inexperience, she hinted at significant potential and should improve for that outing. With a capable jockey booked, she could easily outrun her odds.

Princess Day and Nan’s Choice have both attracted market support and look solid alternatives in a race where several hold chances.

MARTINI MAJESTY (E/W)

written by Rory Paddock