Soldier In Milan clinched victory in the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse, winning by an impressive 16 lengths. The race, held on Easter Monday, showcased the horse’s dominance in a field of 30 competitors.

Trained by Emmet Mullins, Soldier In Milan was the pre-race favorite at odds of 6-1. Donagh Meyler rode the horse to victory, marking Mullins’ first win in this prestigious race.

Showurappreciation finished in second place, while The Enabler and Argento Boy took third and fourth, respectively. Monbeg Genius, who initially led the race, ultimately finished fifth.

The race covered a distance of three miles and five furlongs, testing the stamina and skill of all participants. Soldier In Milan’s victory was particularly notable given that he had only run five races prior to this event.

Meyler expressed his joy, stating, “I had a lot of ups and downs this season with horses not winning, getting beaten on horses and in stewards rooms but this makes up for it all.”

Mullins commented on the horse’s condition leading up to the race, saying, “He was fit and well. Funnily enough, I know he went off favourite, but I told Paul ‘everything is good, he’s happy, he’s healthy, he’s fit but I’ve seen him in better order.'”

He further added, “A well-backed favourite winning an Irish National is something special and he was greatly received here today. It’s an honour and a privilege.”

The Irish Grand National is renowned for its unpredictability and drama, and this year’s event lived up to that reputation.

Looking ahead, Soldier In Milan may compete in the Aintree Grand National next year, a route that has proven successful for other horses in the past.

Details remain unconfirmed.

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The Irish Grand National takes place at Fairyhouse on Monday, 6th April 2026, with a start time of 17:00. This prestigious race boasts a substantial prize pot of €500,000, making it one of the richest events on the Irish racing calendar.

With 30 declared runners and 3 reserves, the competition is expected to be fierce. Among the contenders, The Jukebox Kid stands out as the favorite to win. Following closely in the betting is Kiss Will, trained by the renowned Willie Mullins, while Soldier In Milan recently finished fourth in the Grade 3 Pierce Molony Memorial Novice Chase.

Notable entries include Argento Boy, who placed eighth in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, and C’est Ta Chance, who aims to complete a hat-trick in this race. The challenge of the Irish Grand National is significant, as runners must negotiate 24 fences over a distance of 3m5f.

Last year, Haiti Couleurs claimed victory in the Irish Grand National, adding to the race’s rich history. The event is not only a test of speed and stamina but also of skill, as jockeys navigate their horses through the demanding course.

Fans and enthusiasts can watch the race live on paddypower.com, the Paddy Power app, or on ITV1, ensuring that the excitement of this iconic event reaches a broad audience.

As the date approaches, anticipation builds around the potential performances of the declared runners. Observers are keen to see if C’est Ta Chance can achieve a remarkable hat-trick, while others will be watching The Jukebox Kid to see if it can live up to its favorite status.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the lineup or conditions of the race, but the stage is set for a thrilling contest at Fairyhouse.

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