Defending Randox Grand National champion Nick Rockett has been withdrawn from this year's race after developing a cough. Trainer Patrick Mullins confirmed the decision on Wednesday, opting instead to target the Punchestown Festival. First reserve Pied Piper will take the horse's place in Saturday's lineup.
Patrick Mullins, son of leading Irish trainer Willie Mullins, announced that the nine-year-old Nick Rockett would not run. The horse, who secured a one-two-three finish for the Mullins stable in 2025 with Patrick in the saddle, coughed during morning checks ahead of the 72-hour declaration deadline. Mullins decided on Tuesday to ride Grangeclare West, last year's third-place finisher, leaving Tom Bellamy originally slated for Nick Rockett until the withdrawal call.