Grand National 2026: Preview, Runners, and Everything You Need to Realize

The racing world is turning its attention to Aintree for the 2026 Grand National, one of the most prestigious and challenging events on the global sporting calendar. Scheduled for Saturday, April 11, this legendary steeplechase continues to capture the imagination of millions with its grueling distance and iconic fences.

The 2026 Field: A Battle of Champions

The 2026 renewal is headlined by the past two winners, I Am Maximus and Nick Rockett. Both horses are trained by the powerhouse Irish trainer Willie Mullins, who dominates the field with a total of nine entries.

The Favorites and Contenders

I Am Maximus, the 2024 champion, enters the race as the bookies’ favorite. He carries the top weight of 11st 12lbs, a significant burden given that no top-weight horse has won the race since Red Rum’s triple victory in 1974. He will once again be ridden by jockey Paul Townend.

Nick Rockett, the 2025 winner who triumphed as a 33-1 shot, is returning to defend his crown. While Patrick Mullins rode him to victory last year, the ride for the 2026 race has been taken up by Tom Bellamy. Other notable entries from the Mullins stable include Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, and Lecky Watson.

Course Details and Safety Measures

The Grand National is a test of endurance and precision, covering four-and-a-half miles (approximately 4 miles and 2½ furlongs). Horses must navigate 30 fences across two laps of the course—16 on the first lap and 14 on the second.

Safety remains a priority for organizers. In 2024, the field was reduced to 40 runners as part of ongoing safety improvements, and for 2026, the final field has been further whittled down to 34 runners. The structure of famous fences like Becher’s Brook and The Chair has been modified over time, with lowered heights and softened structures to protect both horse and rider.

The Reserve List

To ensure a full field, six reserves have been named. These horses will enter the race if any of the primary 34 runners pull out before 13:00 BST on Friday:

• Pied Piper
• Imperial Saint
• Amirite
• Ain’t That A Shame
• Deep Cave
• Buddy One

Race Logistics and Viewing

The event is part of a three-day meet at Aintree Racecourse outside Liverpool, which attracts over 150,000 visitors and features more than 20 different races.

For those unable to attend in person, full race commentary and reaction will be available via BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, with live text updates provided on the BBC Sport website and app.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest time in Grand National history?

Mr Frisk holds the record for the fastest time at 8 minutes and 47.8 seconds. Most winners typically finish the race in around 9 minutes and 10 seconds.

How is the prize money distributed?

The Grand National features a £1 million prize fund, which is split between the racehorse owners and their connections.

When was the race not held?

Since its inception in 1839, the race has been held annually except during World War One, World War Two, 1993 (due to false starts), and 2020 (due to the coronavirus pandemic).

Looking Ahead

As the countdown to Saturday begins, the focus remains on whether I Am Maximus can overcome the “top weight curse” or if Nick Rockett can secure back-to-back victories. With the ground conditions at Aintree playing a pivotal role in the final speed of the race, the 2026 Grand National promises to be a thrilling spectacle of sporting endurance.