Soldier In Milan Wins Irish Grand National

Soldier In Milan stormed to a commanding victory in the 2026 BoyleSports Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Easter Monday, delighting a large crowd with an impressive performance that marked the biggest prize in Irish National Hunt racing.

The seven-year-old gelding, ridden by Donagh Meyler and trained by Emmet Mullins for owner Paul Byrne, entered as the 6/1 favorite despite limited experience over fences. Having run just five times under rules, including a Punchestown Festival bumper win last spring and a disappointing fourth-place finish in a Grade 3 novice chase at Thurles last month, Soldier In Milan raced prominently throughout the three-mile, five-furlong contest involving a 30-runner field.

Monbeg Genius set the pace for much of the race, but Soldier In Milan took the lead leaving the back straight for the final time. The decisive moment came at the third fence from home, where market rival Kiss Will fell heavily, clearing the path. Meyler then guided the winner clear, fending off challenges from Showurappreciation and The Enabler to cross the line 16 lengths ahead. Showurappreciation, trained by Jonathan Sweeney and ridden by Mark Walsh for owner JP...