The Grand National is arguably the biggest horse racing meeting in the world. Hundreds of thousands of spectators flock to Aintree every year, and even more bet on the race from around the world. Its global appeal, massive field, and unpredictable nature result in a unique betting event that attracts both casual fans and experienced punters.
If you are new to betting on horse racing, the Grand National can seem overwhelming at first. However, with a basic understanding of how betting odds work and what to look for, it quickly becomes an enjoyable and accessible experience. Keep reading to find out how to bet on the Grand National in 2026!
How do I bet on the Grand National?
The Grand National is a lot to take in. With a huge field, unique fences, and a wide range of betting markets, it’s not always obvious where to begin. The first step is to take a look at the field and look into the favourites. Not every runner will take part in the race, but the market leaders will most likely feature. After that, look for some horse racing betting tips and predictions to see if they align with what you expect. Finally, you are ready to place a wager and see what you can win.
How to Place a Bet on the Grand National with Novibet
Betting on the Grand National has never been easier, thanks to cutting-edge mobile apps and the wide range of exciting promotions. Placing a wager at Novibet is perfect for any Irish punters or players based in Ireland. Follow the steps below to place your first wager at our online bookmaker.
- Sign up: Start by creating an account with Novibet. Complete the registration process and verify your details. Once that’s done, deposit funds using your preferred payment method so you’re ready to bet.
- Claim your Bonus: New customers can often take advantage of welcome offers, such as free bets or boosted odds. These can add extra value when betting on a big race like the Grand National, but it’s always important to check the terms and conditions first.
- Place a Bet: Once your account is funded, head to the horse racing section and find the Grand National. Select the race, browse the available markets, and pick your selection. Enter your stake, confirm the bet, and then enjoy the race as it unfolds.
Best Types of Bets for Grand National Beginners
There are plenty of betting options available for the Grand National, but some are much easier to understand than others. A win bet is the simplest option, where you are backing a horse to finish first. If your selection wins, your bet is successful.
Each-way betting is particularly popular for the Grand National due to the large number of runners. This type of bet is split into two parts: one for the horse to win and one for it to place. Because of the size of the field, bookmakers often offer extra places, which makes each-way betting a smart option for beginners looking for a bit of cover.
If you’re more confident, you might want to explore multiple bets. Accumulators are the most well-known, but options like Yankees, patents, and Trixies are also common in horse racing. These bets combine several selections and can still return a profit even if not all of them win. However, they come with a higher risk and usually require a larger stake.
How Much Money is Bet on the Grand National?
Every year, an incredible £250,000,000 is wagered on the Grand National. The Grand National is not just the most popular horse racing event in the UK and Ireland; it is one of the most popular overall sporting events in the world. The race itself is watched all around the world with an incredible 500-600 million people tuning in on TV. A further 150,000 flock to Aintree to catch the action live each year.
That level of global interest naturally drives huge betting activity, with both casual fans and experienced punters getting involved. From small-stakes bets to large wagers, the Grand National attracts a wide range of betting action across online and retail bookmakers.
What odds was the Grand National winner?
Nick Rockett won the Grand National last year, crossing the line at a bumper 33/1 price. The victory marked a second win in a row for legendary Champion Trainer Willie Mullins, who had won the race for the first time the previous year. Big-priced winners are nothing new in this race, which is known for producing shocks due to its large field and challenging fences. That unpredictability is a big part of what makes the Grand National so exciting for punters each year.
Who has the best odds for the Grand National?
I Am Maximus is the 6/1 favourite for this year’s Grand National after missing out on a famous back-to-back victory last year. Paul Townend will ride Mullins’ leading charge. As always, the SP betting market is competitive, with several other leading contenders close behind in the odds. Prices can shift in the days leading up to the race, so it is worth keeping an eye on the odds for any late movements or value opportunities.
Who should I bet on in the Grand National?
The Grand National is one of the hardest races in the world to predict. It is unlike any other race due to its course and the nature of the jumps. That makes it a race where both favourites and outsiders have a genuine chance of success. When deciding who to back, it is often worth looking at horses with proven stamina, strong jumping ability, and experience in big-field races. Ultimately, finding value is key, whether that is siding with a well-fancied contender or taking a chance on a bigger-priced runner.
Tips for betting on the Grand National
Before placing a bet on the Grand National, it’s important to understand just how unique this race is. Run over four miles with 30 fences, including famous obstacles like Becher’s Brook and The Chair, it places huge demands on stamina, jumping, and composure. Unlike standard races, the sheer size of the field and unpredictability of Aintree make outcomes far less certain. That is why having a clear strategy is key when betting on horse racing at the Grand National.
Analyse the form of the runners
Form analysis is still important, but it needs to be viewed slightly differently for the Grand National. Look beyond recent results and focus on stamina, jumping reliability, and experience in long-distance races. Horses that have performed well in marathon contests or shown strong finishes over three miles and beyond tend to be better suited. Previous experience over the Aintree fences, or in similarly demanding races, is also a major advantage. Ground conditions can play a big role too, so always check whether a horse has performed well on the expected going.
Understand the Aintree Challenge
Aintree is unlike any other racecourse in the world. The fences are bigger, more complex, and require precise jumping. Even the most talented horses can struggle if they do not adapt. That makes jumping ability just as important as speed or class. Horses that travel smoothly and jump cleanly are far more likely to stay in contention. Positioning also matters, as runners can get caught in traffic or brought down in such a large field. Understanding these factors can help you avoid short-priced runners who may not suit the track.
Manage Your Bankroll Carefully
The Grand National attracts huge interest, which can tempt punters into placing more bets than usual. Setting a clear budget is essential. Decide your stake in advance and avoid chasing losses if things do not go your way. With so many runners and variables, even well-researched bets can lose. Spreading your stakes across a couple of selections, such as each-way bets, can offer better value and reduce risk. Staying disciplined ensures you can enjoy the race without unnecessary pressure.
Summary
In summary, betting on the Grand National does not need to be complicated. By sticking to simple bet types, analysing the right factors, and managing your bankroll carefully, you can approach the race with confidence. The key is to focus on value rather than just picking the favourite, especially in such an unpredictable contest. Whether you are placing a small casual bet or taking a more strategic approach, the Grand National offers a unique and exciting betting experience for everyone.
