Grand National 2026: Why Soldier In Milan Is the Each-Way Play of the Race

Soldier In Milan is one of the most talked-about names in the Irish Grand National and Grand National markets this week, and the reason is straightforward: his connections have been pointing toward Fairyhouse all season, his physical profile suggests he will handle the trip, and he arrives at this point in the season relatively unexposed over staying distances. For each-way punters looking for a horse that represents genuine value rather than a safe name at a short price, he deserves serious consideration. The Profile Trained by Emmet Mullins - Willie's nephew - and an impressive physical specimen, Soldier In Milan has had an unusual season by design rather than accident. Connections bypassed the conventional novice chase route and targeted specific races with the Irish Grand National in mind. His bumper form from the 2025 Punchestown Festival is strong, with several winners in behind him from that race. Over fences he has shown a clean jumping technique and a relaxed racing style that suits staying distances. His run in the Jack Richards Novices' Limited Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival over 2m4f produced a fifth place finish - a trip that was always likely to be inadequate for a horse whose trainer has been steering him toward 3m5f all season. The step up to the Irish National trip is the move that connections have been building toward, and Emmet Mullins is not a trainer who enters horses in races without having done the calculations first. The Jockey Question The jockey booking confirmed on Saturday morning's declarations will tell you most of what you need to know about the confidence behind Soldier In Milan at Fairyhouse. A top-tier Irish jockey committed to the ride is a clear signal. A lower-profile booking would give cause for reassessment. The Aintree Possibility Soldier In Milan is also entered for the Aintree Grand National on April 11th. Connections have not confirmed which race is the primary target, which means Saturday's declaration will be revealing. If he runs at Fairyhouse on Monday, he arrives as a genuine contender rather than a warm-up run. If he bypasses Fairyhouse for Aintree, his presence in the National field carries its own significance - a horse specifically prepared for a staying test being pointed at the world's most famous marathon chase. Either way, his profile suits the demands of a National-type race. The age is right. The unexplored ceiling at staying trips is genuine. The trainer knows exactly what he has. At current prices, the each-way case is compelling. Horse Racing Oracle AI will publish its Grand National selection on Wednesday April 8th when final declarations confirm the field. Watch the blog. Want free AI-powered tips every morning? Sign up free at horseracingoracleai.com -> Betting involves risk. Please gamble responsibly. Visit BeGambleAware.org.