Tempers have flared between Hourigan and owners, the Nancy Hogan Syndicate, after a difference of opinion in Aintree riding plans.

The owners have booked Robert Widger to partner Inis Cara but Hourigan prefers Robbie McNally.

However, the syndicate have also expressed their wish to have the horse trained in Britain.

"It's looking like Inis Cara will be trained by Venetia Williams when he runs in the National," said an angry Hourigan.

"I'm not sure exactly what's happening but I think the horse is going to be taken away either tomorrow or on Friday."

McNally guided Inis Cara to victory in the IR£125,000 Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown in 1999.

"Robbie won a valuable race on the horse and has done well. I could only understand this if they were giving the ride to somebody better," said Hourigan.

"I am disappointed about the whole thing as I believe Inis Cara does have a good each-way chance."

Pat Quinn, who heads the syndicate confirmed the switch.

He said: "The horse cannot return to Ireland after the Grand National and we are sending him to Venetia Williams who will take charge when the horse gets to Aintree on Thursday.

"We realise that Michael has done very well with Inis Cara but we want a horse trained in England and, as there are the restrictions about the Irish runners returning home, we decided to put him with Venetia.

"Venetia now officially has the authority to act and Inis Cara will be running for her yard on Saturday."