The Grand National is a highlight in the British horseracing calendar, attracting thousands of spectators and passionate punters alike. Scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 4 p.m. BST, the race promises excitement with a rich history that dates back nearly 190 years. Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool will host the prestigious event, expecting around 70,000 attendees for the Grand National alone, part of a three-day festival.
Race Overview
This iconic race spans 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, making it one of the longest in the country. Competitors tackle 30 challenging fences, including notorious jumps like Becher’s Brook and The Chair. With a maximum of 34 horses allowed in the race, this thrilling event is not just about speed; it’s about endurance and skill over hurdles.
Historic Records
The fastest recorded time belongs to Mr Frisk, who completed the race in 8 minutes and 47.8 seconds. However, the typical winning time hovers around 9 minutes and 10 seconds, heavily influenced by the ground conditions on race day.
Race Schedule
The three-day festival features a variety of races:
- Day 1 (Thursday, April 9): Includes the Boodles Anniversary 4-y-o Juvenile Hurdle Race and the William Hill Aintree Hurdle.
- Day 2 (Friday, April 10): Features the Ladies Day events, including the Huyton Asphalt Franny Blennerhassett Memorial Mildmay Novices’ Chase.
- Day 3 (Saturday, April 11): The Grand National is the highlight, alongside prior races like the Liverpool Hurdle.
Viewing Options
Top Contenders
I Am Maximus, the victor of the 2024 race, is a leading contender once again. He performed well last year, finishing second and is expected to carry a significant weight of 11st 12lbs. Other favorites include:
- Grangeclare West: Last year’s runner-up looking to improve.
- Jagwar: A promising contender aiming to master the endurance required for the Grand National.
- Haiti Couleurs: Seeking to be the first Welsh horse to win since 1905.
Prize Money Breakdown
The total prize fund for the Grand National is set at £1 million, with significant rewards for top finishers:
| Position | Prize Money |
|---|---|
| 1st | £500,000 |
| 2nd | £200,000 |
| 3rd | £100,000 |
| 4th | £65,000 |
| 5th | £40,000 |
| 6th | £30,000 |
| 7th | £20,000 |
| 8th | £15,000 |
| 9th | £10,000 |
| 10th | £5,000 |
Recent Grand National Winners
The legacy of the Grand National includes a rich history of winners dating back to its first official race in 1839. Some notable recent champions are:
- 2025: Nick Rockett
- 2024: I Am Maximus
- 2023: Corach Rambler
- 2022: Noble Yeats
- 2021: Minella Times
As the date approaches, all eyes will be on Aintree, eagerly anticipating who will clinch victory in the 2026 Grand National.
