Grand National betting: 2026 Aintree Red Rum contenders and tip

Ahead of the 2026 Grand National, Coral previews all of the races taking place at Aintree, continuing with the Red Rum Handicap Chase on Thursday, April 9.

2026 Red Rum Handicap Chase contenders and tip

15 runners go to post for this two-mile handicap chase. One of the more open races on the card, this will be an intriguing betting challenge to get stuck into. 

Henry De Bromhead’s Inthepocket carries topweight, and was seen falling last time at Cheltenham when quite fancied to go well in the Grand Annual. He might prefer softer going, though, and tends to go better when lower down the handicap.

Highlands Legacy likes spring ground like this, but is six pounds higher in the weights now than when last seen at Windsor. He comes into this race as a fresher horse than most, though, which could play to his favour, and his trainers - Jonjo and AJ O’Neill - are in good form at present. 

Paul Nicholls’ Sans Bruit was behind Highlands Legacy at Windsor that day, but has now come two pounds down the handicap and could be competitive. Having not been seen in the winners’ enclosure since April last year, though, there is cause for doubt. The trainer’s horses are going well at present, though, and he could make his presence duly felt.  

Henry De Bromhead’s Jasko Des Dames could be a danger, though. He performed well at a big price in the Grand Annual for fifth of 20, and is down a pound now. He could represent some each-way value if showing similar form, but the flatter track of Aintree ought to suit him.

Coral’s big-race tip: Jasko Des Dames each-way at 12/1 

View the Grand National 2026 odds and specials.

All odds and markets correct as of date of publication.