Declarations
Declarations, as they are known, are what turns the list of potential runners into the runners that line up at Aintree for the Grand National. Entries can be made months in advance but are simply declarations of intent rather than a confirmation that the selected horse will be running in, or even partaking in the final field.
Following the close of entries, the handicapper publishes the weights. Weighting is crucial as there is a limit of 34 runners in the race, so horses with weight towards the upper end are virtually assured of a place, whilst those with lesser weight rely on others to be scratched from the race. Trainers have the facility to ‘scratch’ their horse prior to declarations based on the fitness of the horse, unsuitable ground conditions, form or a desire for the horse to contest another target.
The declarations are ultimately the most significant stage of declarations for racegoers and punters. Since 2026, declaration for the Grand National has operated under 72-hour declarations, the field announced on the Wednesday of Saturday’s contest. Six reserves are named and substitute a declared runner withdrawn prior to 1pm on Friday. A runner, even if declared and a certain runner, can pull out for various reasons – most commonly sickness, injury or the changing race conditions, therefore a declaration does not guarantee their participation, but offers a significantly higher likelihood.
The 2026 Grand National just how important the reserve system can be. Nick Rockett was declared but the 2025 National winner had to withdraw from the race due to a cough, and I Am Maximus went on to be victorious, carrying a weight of 11-12, Iroko in second with Jordans and Johnnywho in third and fourth respectively.
Attention now shifts to the 2027 Grand National, which will be held on Saturday, April 10th. There can be no definitive talk of any horses being definite 2027 Grand National runners and declarations will reveal that closer to the time, but after initial entries are published and then declared, the runners and riders will begin to be revealed.
However, the candidates should begin to emerge even at this stage. I Am Maximus might look to equal Red Rum’s record of three National wins, though age, the weight they would carry and this seasons performances will have a big impact on connections. Iroko finished fourth, and second over the two last National races, so has to be a consideration, while Jordans and Johnnywho also proved themselves to be capable runners during the 2026 National.
Nick Rockett will be looking to return to Aintree after missing the race and a defense of his crown last year.
Soldier In Milan, winner of last years impressive Irish National has proven they will stay 4 miles and is one for punters to keep an eye on at this stage.