Vanillier(Image: PA Wire)

'I tipped 50-1 Grand National winner and these are the two horses I'm backing today'

by · Wales Online

A tipster who hit the headlines with a spot-on 50-1 Grand National prediction in 2022 has revealed his top picks for this year's iconic race.

The historic Grand National, which first took to the track in 1839, is often seen as a pinnacle challenge in British racing. Boasting an illustrious past and standing as a supreme test of stamina over a gruelling four miles, two-and-half furlongs, and 30 challenging fences at Aintree, it's where legends like the three-time winner Red Rum, who dominated in the 1970s, have made their mark in history.

After their stunning prediction success three years ago, predicting Noble Yeats' 50-1 triumph, all eyes are now on the highly anticipated selections from @MaxRacingTips for the 2025 Grand National – Perceval Legallois and Vanillier being this year's favourites.

Since the unexpected victory of Noble Yeats in 2022, @MaxRacingTips' prediction swiftly became a sensation, leading to jubilant responses from the betting community. One punter posted a bet slip that showed a £20 each-way bet on Noble Yeats had lucratively turned into £620, inciting a stream of congratulatory messages such as "You beauty" and "F****** unreal."

At odds of 10-1, Perceval Legallois, under the guidance of trainer Gavin Cromwell who’s celebrated major successes including the Kerry National with Flooring Porter and the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Inothewayurthinkin this season, is among the well-supported entries, reports the Mirror.

Cromwell, still chasing his first Grand National victory, fields three strong contenders in this year's race, with Perceval Legallois tipped as one with serious potential.

The seven year old, set to carry 10st 12lb with Mark Walsh in the saddle, has demonstrated potential in competitive handicaps and is well-suited to the marathon distance. Cromwell recently told the Racing Post: "We have three great chances, and I genuinely can't split them. They all bring something different to the table."

Pundit Kevin Blake of Betfair echoed this sentiment, describing Perceval Legallois as "a horse with the perfect profile for Aintree."

Vanillier, at 18-1, is another Cromwell runner with a strong case. The grey, owned by Mrs. H. M. Keaveney, finished a gallant second in the 2023 Grand National and returns for his third attempt at the race.

Renowned for his stamina, Vanillier could thrive if the forecasted rain softens the ground. "Vanillier's form over long distances is rock-solid, and he's a live contender," Blake said.

Cromwell's desire for a first Grand National triumph adds further intrigue to both horses' chances. And with last year's winner, I Am Maximus, heading a strong Irish challenge, the 2025 Grand National is shaping up to be a cracker.