Willie Mullins, already a towering figure in the world of horse racing, is set to launch a six-strong assault on the 2025 Randox Grand National — and few would bet against him adding another of Aintree’s crown jewels to his already glittering CV.
Fresh off yet another dominant Cheltenham Festival, Mullins brings both depth and class to this year’s Grand National field.
With a mix of proven stayers and improving young chasers, the Irish maestro appears to have covered all bases — and punters would be wise to take note.
Here’s a closer look at the six runners under Mullins’ care:
| No. | Horse Name | Jockey | Age | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | I Am Maximus | Paul Townend | 9 | 11-12 |
| 3 | Nick Rockett | Mr P W Mullins | 8 | 11-8 |
| 4 | Grangeclare West | Brian Hayes | 9 | 11-8 |
| 7 | Appreciate It | Sean O’Keeffe | 11 | 11-2 |
| 8 | Minella Cocooner | Jonathan Burke | 9 | 11-2 |
| 26 | Meetingofthewaters | Danny Mullins | 8 | 10-7 |
A strong hand with depth
Leading the charge is I Am Maximus, last year’s Grand National champion, bidding for a rare back-to-back win.
With Paul Townend aboard once again, the horse has the class, stamina, and crucial Aintree experience to be a major player.
Nick Rockett and Grangeclare West both bring solid credentials from graded chases in Ireland and have been steadily campaigned, potentially with this race in mind.
Mullins also fields the classy veteran Appreciate It, who steps up after showing staying promise this season. At 11, he’s no spring chicken, but his blend of tactical speed and jumping accuracy could prove valuable.
Minella Cocooner is another who fits the mould of a dark horse — a strong traveler with form over long distances.
And then there’s Meetingofthewaters, a lively contender despite being lightly raced this season. With Danny Mullins taking the reins, don’t be surprised if this one runs a big race at a price.
Mullins the mastermind
Willie Mullins has done it all — Cheltenham Gold Cups, Champion Hurdles, and Irish Grand Nationals.
With a team that combines youth, experience, and tactical versatility, the odds may finally tilt in his favor again.
Mullins’ horses are rarely underprepared, and his knack for timing a horse’s peak to perfection makes any of his runners worth serious consideration.
