'The classier horse has a better chance' - Willie Mullins believes changes to Grand National alter the character of the race

Willie Mullins believes the latest changes to the Grand National will result in classier types being more likely to take their chance in the world's most famous jumps race.

The most notable alterations made before last year's contest, which Mullins landed with I Am Maximus, were a reduction in the maximum field size to 34 from 40, the repositioning of the first fence to 60 yards closer to the start and the introduction of a standing start.

Last season's Irish and British champion trainer believes the race now suits the better class of horses compared to the past, when it was more unpredictable, and this will encourage trainers and owners to roll the dice with higher-class chasers.

"It's going to make it easier for those types of horses," Mullins said. "The National was all about the handicap chaser who can come from any part of the handicap and the changes are possibly going to make that different. The classier horse has a better chance. 

"People are probably more inclined to take a chance with that kind of horse because it has possibly got safer. 

I Am Maximus (white cap) on his way to Grand National gloryCredit: John Grossick

"It's probably going to be a better type of race, which is maybe disappointing for the National as it is a race that anyone can win, and I wonder whether that is going to change.

"Nowadays, racing has changed and the perception of horses in sport has changed. I think Aintree have done a fantastic job to retain the race and have £1 million prize-money. We lose a bit on one side but we still have the race and the heritage of the Grand National with the prize-money."

Mullins is hopeful he can take another strong squad over for the Aintree festival in April after he was impressed with the programme and levels of prize-money last season.

"The festival as a whole is growing every year and we sent over a lot more horses last year given we had to play our cards for the trainers' championship," he said. "We came out of it very happy so I can see us sending a lot more horses over there this year.

"Normally we sort of skip it and go to Punchestown, but Aintree has really beefed up its programme and prize-money so we look forward to maybe bringing a bigger team over there than we have in the past."

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