Grand National 2026: Race Day at Aintree as 34 Horses Compete for £1 Million Prize
The Grand National Festival reaches its climax today at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, with 34 horses set to contest the world's most famous steeplechase over four miles and two-and-a-half furlongs, jumping 30 fences for a total prize fund of £1 million.
The main race is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. BST on Saturday 11 April 2026, with live coverage on ITV1 and ITVX. The going on the National course is described as good to soft following approximately 2mm of rain, with largely dry conditions expected for race day.
Background
The Grand National is one of the most watched sporting events in the United Kingdom, attracting millions of viewers and casual punters who rarely follow horse racing at any other time of year. The three-day festival at Aintree — comprising Opening Day, Ladies Day, and Grand National Day — is a major fixture in the British sporting and social calendar.
This year's race has been shaped by several notable withdrawals. Nick Rockett, the 2025 winner, was declared a non-runner on Thursday due to a cough, while Pied Piper also pulled out due to lameness. Spillane's Tower was withdrawn after taking up a preferred engagement in the Grade 1 Racing Welfare Bowl.
Key Developments
With the field of 34 confirmed, several horses have emerged as leading contenders. Panic Attack, trained by Dan Skelton and ridden by Harry Skelton, is the market favourite, with the mare aiming to become the first of her gender to win the Grand National since Nickel Coin in 1951. She had an impressive season, winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup and Coral Gold Cup in late 2025.
I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, is another strong contender, carrying the top weight of 11st 12lb. Grangeclare West, who finished third in the 2025 race, and Jagwar, who was second in the Ultima Handicap Chase at Cheltenham, are also prominent in the market.
Earlier on Saturday, 50-1 outsider Mirabad won the Grade 1 Maghull Novices' Chase, ridden by Tristan Durrell for trainer Dan Skelton, providing an early highlight to the day's racing.
Why It Matters
The Grand National is more than a horse race — it is a cultural institution that brings together communities across the UK and Ireland. For many, it represents the one day of the year when they engage with horse racing, and the event generates significant economic activity for Liverpool and the wider region. The race also carries important welfare considerations, with ongoing efforts by Aintree and the racing industry to improve safety for horses and jockeys.
What's Next
The main race goes to post at 4:00 p.m. BST. Racegoers are encouraged to use public transport, with Merseyrail operating increased services to Aintree station and dedicated shuttle buses running from Liverpool city centre.
For runners, riders, and odds, see the Racing Post's Grand National live updates.
