Grand National 2026 Form Guide: The Cheltenham Festival Clues
The 2026 Cheltenham Festival has had a major impact on the Grand National betting, with Johnnywho and Final Orders emerging as key contenders after eye-catching wins.
Both have followed proven paths to Aintree success, while pre-Festival favourites Iroko and Haiti Couleurs failed to deliver and have since drifted in the market with UK betting sites.
Here at Free Bets, we take a closer look at how this month's Cheltenham Festival form could affect April's big race.
Johnnywho - Ultima Winner
Johnnywho's Ultima victory could prove the most significant Cheltenham result when it comes to the Grand National, with that race boasting a standout record of producing Aintree winners - most notably Corach Rambler, who completed the double in 2023 just 32 days later.
The JP McManus-owned nine-year-old has seen his odds slashed since that success and looks attractively weighted, carrying just 10st 4lb and reportedly well-in compared to his rivals.
He may still need a few withdrawals to guarantee a run, but his profile as a progressive, lightly weighted stayer ticks plenty of boxes - although the quick turnaround and a possible Irish National entry do add a layer of uncertainty.
Final Orders - The Tiger Roll Route
Final Orders heads to Aintree on the back of a Cross Country success, a route that has produced some of the most memorable modern National winners, with Tiger Roll the standout example after completing the double in 2018 and 2019.
A bold, front-running stayer, he showed plenty of grit and jumping ability at Cheltenham, and that versatility over varied obstacles could translate well to Aintree's unique test.
Carrying a manageable weight and reportedly thriving at home, he looks overpriced given the strength of that performance.
He could be a lively each-way contender if able to dictate the pace again.
Iroko & Haiti Couleurs: Cheltenham Setbacks
Two of the pre-Festival market leaders, Iroko and Haiti Couleurs, both came out of Cheltenham with questions to answer after underwhelming efforts.
Iroko, who went off near the head of the market, struggled under top weight in the Ultima and faded tamely, leading to a drift in his odds - though connections had always suggested that race was not his primary target.
His earlier form, including a strong staying performance at Ascot, still leaves him with solid claims if bouncing back in a race that should suit him better.
Haiti Couleurs, meanwhile, saw his challenge end with a costly mistake in the Gold Cup after travelling well for much of the race.
His profile remains that of a thorough stayer, however, with his best performances coming in marathon contests on softer ground, including wins in both the Welsh and Irish Grand Nationals. I
f conditions at Aintree turn testing, he could easily bounce back and re-enter the picture as a serious contender despite his Cheltenham disappointment.
Latest Grand National Odds
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