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The Early Favourites for the Grand National

The Grand National is the crown jewel of the British horse racing calendar—a race that captures the imagination of seasoned punters and casual fans alike on horse racing betting sites. With its gruelling four-mile-plus distance and iconic fences like Becher’s Brook and The Chair, it’s a true test of horse and jockey.

As anticipation builds for the 2025 edition of this Aintree spectacular in April, speculation is already rife about which runners could emerge as early favourites to take on the sport’s toughest challenge. In this article, we delve into the leading contenders who have caught the attention at this stage.

From proven stayers to rising stars in this sphere, these horses have shown the potential to make their mark on one of the world’s most famous stages. Let’s explore the key names that could dominate the headlines in the run-up to this year’s Grand National.

I Am Maximus – 12/1

I Am Maximum Grand National Odds 2025Retaining the Grand National is no easy feat, but the manner in which I Am Maximus won the Aintree showpiece so convincingly last year suggests that he might be able to emulate the landmark feat last achieved by the now-legendary Tiger Roll.

The nine-year-old secured esteemed owner JP McManus a record-equalling third win in the race in 2024 when ending Willie Mullins’ almost two-decade-long wait for a second success when beating Delta Work by over seven lengths in a dominant display.

I Am Maximus was pulled up on his seasonal reappearance in the Savills Chase at Leopardstown in December, and will almost certainly have to carry more than last year’s 11-6 when he tackles the Aintree fences in April—making life more difficult.

Intense Raffles – 16/1

Intense Raffles Grand National Odds 2025Trainer Thomas Gibney has won the Irish Grand National on home soil on two occasions, but a victory at Aintree would be a career-biggest success for the Co. Meath handler—and he appears to have a big chance with Intense Raffles.

The second favourite in the ante-post markets, the seven-year-old enjoyed a fantastic first campaign over fences last season, having joined Gibney from France’s Patrice Quinton after being recruited by ‘Double Green’ owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede.

Intense Raffles won three races in a row at Fairyhouse, including a Novice Chase by 43 lengths on his second start before landing the Irish Grand National in April. He has started this season over hurdles, with his Aintree bid potentially on hold until the weights are released in February.

Corbetts Cross – 25/1

Corbetts Cross Grand National Odds 2025Another horse that could potentially add to McManus’ ever-growing Grand National tally, Corbetts Cross appears to be on course to carry the Irish billionaire’s green-and-gold-hooped silks around the iconic track.

The eight-year-old, trained by Willie Mullins’ nephew Emmet, has a respectable record over fences with two wins, two seconds, and two thirds in eight starts.

His remarkable 17-length win over Embassy Gardens in last year’s Amateur Jockeys’ Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival is perhaps proof that he will stay the National distance.

Inothewayurthinkin and Iroko, both also owned by McManus, are also 25/1 shots.