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The word ‘legend’ is thrown around a lot nowadays, especially in the sporting world. More often than not, that title is not actually deserved. Occasionally however, it is, and in the case of Willie Mullins, it most certainly is deserved.

Few trainers have enjoyed as much success, and downright dominance, as W.P Mullins over the last several decades. This legendary Irish trainer has won virtually everything there is to win in the horse racing world, often on more than one occasion.

Mullins may be known as the Cheltenham Festival King (and rightly so, having picked up over 100 victories, including multiple hurdles and Gold Cups) but for now, it’s the Grand National that Mullins will have his sights set on. Mullins’ first victory at Aintree came in 2005. Since then, despite strong performances, horses he trained always tended to come up short. In 2024 however, that changed when I Am Maximus won in dominant fashion. The following year, another of his horses, Nick Rockett, also picked up the win.

The current trainer record for most wins at the Grand National stands at 4. With 3 under his belt, you better believe that Mullins has his sights set on the history books.

So, can Willie Mullins win the Grand National? Here’s what the bookies think.

I Am Maximus

This year’s current favourite to take home the win at Aintree is a previous winner of the Grand National, in the form of I Am Maximus.

I Am Maximus is perhaps Mullins’ most promising horse thus far, despite being a little long in the tooth. I Am Maximus first won the National in 2024, and narrowly missed out on another consecutive win the following year.

I Am Maximus is a fantastic jumper, with a great deal of stamina and staying power. For the National, you couldn’t really ask for more. This is why he is currently the favourite, by a considerable margin. If you fancy backing this previous winner, Bet365 currently have him at 15/2, whereas QuinnBet are currently offering 8/1 odds.

Grangeclare West

Should I Am Maximus come up short at Aintree, Grangeclare West could very well be the ace up Willie Mullins’ sleeve. Grangeclare West is a hugely talented stayer who, despite having a disappointing 2025, is currently enjoying a great run of form.

Last year, he finished in 3^rd place, and for a long period of time, looked like he could very well pick up the win. Ultimately, a mistake at the final fence cost him, though he managed to rally, finishing third behind I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett, and completing the Mullins hat trick in the process.

Following a win at the Fairyhouse Grade 3 Bobbyjo Chase, he’s back on form which is why both QuinnBet and Bet365 are offering 10/1 odds.

Nick Rockett

Finally, if I Am Maximus and Grangeclare West fail to get the job done, Mullins will be banking on last year’s winner to come good once again.

2025 was one heck of a year for Nick Rockett, having picked up wins at Gowran Park, Fairyhouse, and of course, Aintree when he was crowned winner of the 2025 Grand National.

A recent dip in form at the Down Royal Chase back in March has seen him slip down the list of favourites. If you would like to back last year’s winner, Bet365 and QuinnBet will give you 16/1 odds.