Prince De Beauchene ruled out of Grand National

Prince De Beauchene has been ruled out of next month's Grand National at Aintree.

The 9-1 favourite for the race has been withdrawn by trainer Willie Mullins because of a hip injury.

"Prince De Beauchene disappointed in a bit of work during the week," Mullins told his official website. "We had him checked out and the veterinary examination revealed that he has a stress fracture of the ilium in the hip area.

"It will mean about eight weeks box rest and, unfortunately, there will be no Aintree for him this year."

Ruby Walsh was expected to ride Prince De Beauchene.