Grand National betting: 2026 Aintree Debenhams Handicap Hurdle contenders and tip

Ahead of the 2026 Grand National, Coral previews all of the races taking place at Aintree, continuing with the Debenhams Handicap Hurdle on Friday, April 10.

2026 Debenhams Handicap Hurdle contenders and tip

A full-sized field of 22 line up for the final race on the Friday of the Grand National Festival. One of the more competitive races on the card, finding a winner is no easy task.

Harry Fry’s Sherminator seeks a hat-trick and is given a serious boost by the employ of Patrick Mullins in the saddle. He must be taken very seriously for an in-form trainer. 

Melon is a useful type who could be competitive in this company, but will need to produce a career best performance to win. 

Wreckless Eric, who runs for Jonjo and AJ O’Neill, is ridden by Benjamin Macey and could go nicely, but may prefer slightly softer ground. 

Paul Nicholls’ runner, Pourquoi Pas Papa, ran well last time out at Cheltenham behind Saratoga in the Fred Winter, and he looks able to run a very good race if he can rise to the challenge of going up against older horses. Only a four-year-old, he is at an each-way price and could be a player.

Coral’s big-race tip: Pourquoi Pas Papa at 9/1

View the Grand National 2026 odds and specials.

All odds and markets correct as of date of publication.