Horse racing news: Defending champion Nick Rockett out of 2026 Grand National

Last year’s Grand National winner Nick Rockett has been ruled out of this year’s edition at Aintree on Saturday, April 11.

The Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old was found to be coughing and has subsequently been withdrawn from the world’s most famous steeplechase.

This halts his bid to become the first back-to-back winner of the race since Tiger Roll.

He was due to be ridden by Tom Bellamy, who had a fairytale of his own after being called up to ride the defending champion.

This marks yet another absence for Nick Rockett, who failed to make his return in November due to temperature.

Mullins is still represented by a host of runners, including last year’s runner-up and 2024 winner I Am Maximus, who heads the market.

Whilst last year’s luckless third, Grangeclare West, is narrowly behind him.

Grand National substitute

Gordon Elliott’s Pied Piper will take his place in the Grand National field, as first reserve.

His jockey is yet to be announced but Tom Bellamy will be hoping to snag the ride on him and keep his place in the race.

Pied Piper becomes Elliott’s sixth runner in the race but with all of his usual jockeys booked up, it is unclear who will ride the eight-year-old.

Excitement is building for the race, which is due off at 16:00 GMT on Saturday, April 11.

Nick Rockett’s absence is a blow for fans and punters alike, all wondering if he could join an esteemed group of horses to do the double.

But the field is still competitive, with I Am Maximus heading the 34 runners.

Dan Skelton’s Panic Attack heads the charge for the home support.

She bids to become the second mare in 75 years to win the Grand National.

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