Grand National 2026: L’Homme Presse ruled out for Venetia Williams

Connections of the 2026 Grand National hope L’Homme Presse have been left ‘completely devastated’ following the news that the horse has been ruled out of the race.

The 11-year-old stayer was discovered lame by trainer Venetia Williams, who won the Grand National back in 2009 with Mon Mome, who was relishing the opportunity to run the horse in this year’s race.

One of the owners of the horse, Andy Edwards, told the PA, "I’m completely devastated and so are the others."

Fifth in the Gold Cup three weeks ago, L’Homme Presse was set to run off a mark of 164 in the Aintree showpiece, and was 66/1 to win with Betfred before the news broke.

On a positive note, it’s confirmed that the injury isn’t significant enough to call an end to his career, with the son of Diamond Boy expected to be back in training next Autumn.

Grand National Odds

Johnnywho one step closer

This now leaves Williams without an entry in the race, and Jonjo O’Neil’s leading fancy Johnnywho now just needs one horse to come out by the final declaration stage next Wednesday to line up on Saturday 11th.

Johnnywho was an impressive winner of the Ultima Handicap Chase at Cheltenham a few weeks ago, is a 14/1 chance to give owner J P McManus a fourth win in the race.

The Irishman has an absolutely stacked lineup of entries, including the 2024 winner and top weight I Am Maximus (8/1), as well as leading fancies Iroko (12/1) and Jagwar (10/1).

He also has another three entries in the shape of Oscars Brother (14/1), trained by Connor King, Spillane’s Tower (25/1) for James Mangan and a faller in the race last year, Perceval Legallois (40/1), should he be forced to make room for Johnnywho.

The nine-year-old could sneak in at the weights and was the pick of the runners in my recent Grand National trends piece.

Notable Dates

Monday, 6 April - Five-day declarations

Wednesday 8 April - Final declarations

Thursday, 9 April - Opening Day of the Grand National meeting

Friday, 10 April - Ladies Day

Saturday, 11 April, The Grand National, 4pm