The Grand National is the ultimate test of skill, stamina, and strategy for both horse and rider. While many big names, past and present, have conquered Aintree’s famous fences, many of the sport’s top jockeys are still chasing their elusive first victory in the world’s most iconic steeplechase.
With the 2025 renewal on the horizon, and the Grand National runners starting to become clearer, several talented riders are in prime position to break their duck. Whether still in the early stages of their career or experienced professionals yet to taste glory, these jockeys have the talent and determination to etch their name into racing history.
Here’s a look at the big names who could land their first Grand National victory in 2025.
Jonjo O’Neill Jr.
Racing runs in the O’Neill family bloodline, with Jonjo O’Neill Snr. winning major races like the Gold Cup on two occasions as a jockey, before going on to win both the Cheltenham feature race and the Grand National as a trainer.
Jonjo O’Neill Jr. has what appears to be a big chance to add yet another Grand National trophy to the family mantle this year, as he’s set to mount Iroko for Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero—the 14/1 joint-third favourite at the time of writing.
Harry Cobden
With Paul Nicholls not fielding a Grand National runner since 2021, British Champion Jockey Harry Cobden has been left picking up spare rides over the last few years.
That has seen him paired with Lostintranslation for Colin Tizzard, the Gordon Elliott-trained Coko Beach, and former Grand National winner Noble Yeats for Emmett Mullins in 2024, but he hasn’t been able to finish better than 14th during his career.
For someone as hungry and competitive as Cobden, that will be incredibly frustrating. However, Nicholls could field five runners this year, and the top jockey will have the pick of the crop on April 5th.
Sam Twiston-Davies
Another jockey from a family with a rich racing history, Sam Twiston-Davies’ father, Nigel, has 17 Cheltenham Festival winners (including the Gold Cup) and has won the Grand National twice with Earth Summit and Bindaree.
Over 20 years have passed since the latter of those won in 2002, but Nigel could run both Beauport and Broadway Boy this year—who are both 40/1 shots—and Sam will have the pick of who thinks will have the better chance.
Jack Kennedy
Jack Kennedy has achieved so much in such a short career, most notably winning the Gold Cup aboard Minella Indo, and has overcome several injuries in the face of adversity.
The 25-year-old has mounted six Grand National runners thus far, with second place on Delta Work being his best finish to date, and he’s lucky to have the choice of Gordon Elliott’s runners.
At the time of writing, Elliott has 12 potential entries in the Grand National—with Three Card Brag the shortest in the betting at 33/1.
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Big names Harry Skelton and Nico de Boinville are others still seeking their first Grand National wins. With Dan Skelton not fielding a runner this year, Harry is set to ride Threeunderthrufive for Nicholls, while de Boinville will likely mount Hyland for Nicky Henderson—who is also on the hunt for an elusive National success.
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