Joseph O’Brien eyeing up National bid for Banbridge
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Joseph O’Brien could be double-handed in the Randox Grand National at Aintree next month with Banbridge and Jordans.
The 10-year-old Banbridge has winning form at the Merseyside track after winning the Grade One Manifesto Novices’ Chase in 2023 but he is without a win since the King George in 2024.
O’Brien said: “He (Banbridge) came out of Cheltenham (where he was third in the Ryanair Chase) good. I’d say he could go to Aintree for the National.
“I think he might. We’ll keep his options open and a decision will be made late. We’ll discuss it with (owner) Ronnie (Bartlett) and see what he’d like to do.
“We’re leaning towards that at the moment. He loves the track and if it was three miles I’d fancy him!”
Jordans has been somewhat out of sorts this season but O’Brien feels the better ground on Merseyside can bring out the best in the seven-year-old.
“Jordans will run as well. A bit of nice ground would help him,” said O’Brien.
“I was a bit disappointed with him the last day but I think up in trip on better ground will help. He has a nice weight (10st 8lb) on his back.”
Regarding possible other Aintree runners O’Brien said: “Solness might run in the Topham and Home By The Lee could run in the Liverpool Hurdle, he came out of the race well in Cheltenham.”
Related posts
Naas report: Causeway follows in hoofprints of Paddington
Dubai World Cup meeting: news, tips and interviews
The 2026 Grand National: guide to all the entries
Joe Tizzard: my big three hopes for Aintree
Ross Millar: weekend reflections and three tips for Monday
Featured offers
Bet £10 Get £40 in Free Bets + money back if 2nd to SP fav with Boyle Sports
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
£30 in free bets when you bet £5 with Ladbrokes
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Get a £50 free bet when you bet £50 with Coral
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £30 in free bets with Virgin Bet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £30 in free bets in Multis with Betfair
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved