Aintree and Fairyhouse are focal points for horse racing analysis as experts offer predictions for the upcoming Grand National Festival and Irish Grand National. Several analysts, including Kevin Blake, have put forth detailed prognoses, highlighting potential contenders and drawing on historical race trends. Notably, Irish-trained horses have a significant track record, with a substantial number of recent Grand National winners emerging from Ireland, including victors from the previous season's Irish Grand National.
Key Figures and Forecasts Emerge
Kevin Blake, an ITV Racing expert, has been particularly vocal, offering specific 1-2-3-4 predictions for both the Aintree and Irish Grand National races. His analyses, published across various platforms including Betfair, Sky Sports, and At The Races, often dissect the form of horses based on their performance at events like the Cheltenham Festival. For the 2025 Irish Grand National, Blake's considerations included horses like Kinturk Kalanisi and Will Do (16-1), with particular attention paid to how weight adjustments might affect their chances. He also expressed interest in Haiti Couleurs, though he questioned if the favourite would ultimately triumph.
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Recent activity from Blake indicates a focus on the Grand National Festival at Aintree, with tips provided for multiple days of racing in early April 2026. He has highlighted selections such as Kaka's Cousin (10-1) for the William Hill Handicap Hurdle and Cruz Control (6-1) for the William Hill Handicap Chase. A 16-1 fancy was also mentioned for day two of the festival.
Trends and Historical Context
Historical data from the Grand National at Aintree reveals a pattern favouring horses with prior National experience. The previous season’s Irish Grand National winner has produced eight champions in the last 27 years at Aintree. Furthermore, a significant portion of Grand National winners had previously placed in a National event. Second-season chasers have also shown a propensity for success, with one winner leading home a 1-2-3-4 of such horses three years prior.
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Other analysts and publications have also contributed to the pre-race discourse. Reports from the Irish Mirror and Belfast Live echo Blake's insights on the Irish Grand National, emphasizing the 16-1 each-way potential of Will Do. Sports Mole's analysis for the 2026 Grand National points to established performers like I Am Maximus and stablemate Grangeclare West, noting the significance of the Bobbyjo Chase as a National trial. The discourse also touches on the evolving nature of the Grand National fences and how the racing dynamics have adapted.
