From the Hill to the National: Cheltenham’s Stars Heading to Aintree

The dust has barely settled on a spectacular Cheltenham Festival, and already eyes are turning to Aintree and the Grand National on 11 April. Several of the horses that lit up last week’s racing are set to make the trip to Merseyside. Here’s a look at who is heading to Aintree so far.

Cheltenham Festival Horses Who Are Going to The Grand National in 2026

Note: Grand National declarations are not finalised until 8 April, so all plans below are subject to change.

1. Grey Dawning

Grey Dawning is perhaps the most talked-about name. He finished fourth in the Gold Cup, but the Grand National is run over a longer distance (around four miles), and many feel that could suit him even better. He remains one of the top-rated British hopes for April.

2. Johnnywho

Johnnywho pulled off a massive 18/1 victory in the Ultima Handicap Chase on Day 1. He gave Richie McLernon a fairy-tale win and proved he has the “stayout” ability required for the National. He is currently one of the market favorites for Aintree.

3. Jagwar

Jagwar went very close in the Ultima Handicap Chase, finishing just behind Johnnywho at the line. Despite making a few jumping errors, his “real heart” finish has convinced many that the Aintree fences won’t stop him.

4. Final Orders

Final Orders won the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham, a race that tends to produce tough, adaptable stayers. Those qualities are exactly what the Grand National rewards, and he is among the entries for Aintree.

5. Favori De Champdou

Favori De Champdou finished second in the Cross Country Chase and is another entry for the National. He has plenty of experience in testing courses and should not be underestimated if he lines up at Aintree.

6. Vanillier

Vanillier completed a strong Cross Country Chase in the top three. Like his rivals from that race, he is a proven stayer who handles demanding tracks – a useful profile heading into the National.

7. Panic Attack

Panic Attack finished third in the Mares’ Chase and would be one of the rare mares to take on the Grand National field if she runs. It’s an unusual route to Aintree, which makes her one of the more intriguing names in the entries.

8. Monbeg Genius

Monbeg Genius finished third in the Kim Muir Chase, the amateur riders’ race at Cheltenham, and is also among the Grand National entries. Horses who run well in the Kim Muir are often well-suited to the National trip, and he could be one to follow as declarations approach.

Will Cheltenham’s Two Biggest Winners Make the Trip?

Lossiemouth was brilliant in winning the Champion Hurdle, and Gaelic Warrior produced a stunning performance to take the Gold Cup. Both were exceptional on the day, but will we see either of them at the Grand National? Watch this space.

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