Montys Star in Aintree spotlight as Grand National tips firm up
montys star is one of the headline names as the Weekend Winners team previewed the 2026 Randox Grand National at Aintree. The discussion came ahead of the world’s greatest steeplechase, with the latest renewal set to feature a maximum field of 34 runners and a market led by I Am Maximus. The focus was on which horses best fit the race’s demands, and montys star was put forward as a serious contender.
Aintree field set for a major test
The preview centered on the Grand National’s 2026 renewal at Aintree, where a maximum of 34 runners have assembled. 2024 winner I Am Maximus heads the betting for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend, while Coral Gold Cup winner Panic Attack is also prominent in the market. Last year’s third, Grangeclare West, and JP McManus-owned runners Jagwar, Johnnywho and Iroko are also part of the conversation around the race.
One of the stronger angles in the discussion was the belief that some runners arrive with profiles suited to the National’s unique test. Imperial Saint was backed on the basis of course form on the Mildmay course and a feeling that the marathon trip will suit. Johnnywho was highlighted after winning the Ultima at the Cheltenham Festival, with the view that that race has produced a strong record in this contest. Iroko was also named as a horse to fill out the frame after a creditable run in the race last year and an encouraging year that included a win at Ascot.
Why montys star is in the frame
montys star drew attention for a different reason: the case for improvement rather than recent winning form. The horse’s last win came in December 2023, but the assessment was that he has been competing at a high level more recently. His latest run at the Dublin Racing Festival was described as a fair effort on ground that may not have suited, and the view was that he is well placed off a nice mark.
Henry de Bromhead’s record in the race was also mentioned in support of the case, with the horse said to fit the right profiles for a National challenge. The expectation was that montys star could shorten in the market if that profile continues to attract support.
Other names in the frame
The same preview also put forward Final Orders and Spanish Harlem from another set of selections, with both judged on weight, rating, running style and price. Final Orders was described as having the perfect rating and perfect weight, while Spanish Harlem was viewed as a big-priced runner who could outrun his odds. Oscar’s Brother was also singled out as a possible story of the race, with improvement noted and a step up in trip expected to help.
Those names underline how broad the betting picture remains as Aintree’s showpiece approaches. The race is still being framed through profiles, course suitability and stamina, and montys star remains part of that conversation.
What happens next
The market will continue to move as the 2026 Randox Grand National draws closer, with the field, weights and late sentiment likely to shape final opinions. For now, montys star sits among the horses tipped to make an impact in a race where small details can make the difference, and where every assessment is being measured against the same Aintree test.
