Grand National 2026 runners, riders and latest odds

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Horse racing’s biggest event is back at Aintree with 2024 Grand National winner I Am Maximus the favourite to claim another triumph
The biggest event in the horse racing calendar, the Grand National , is back as Aintree is set to host the annual festival of jump racing.

The 2024 winner I Am Maximus headlines a 34-strong field as the favourite – trying to become the first horse since the legendary Red Rum in the 1970s to regain the title having lost it.

Paul Townend is back in the saddle for Willie Mullins ’ charge, reprising the partnership that found success two years ago, while Patrick Mullins – who won on 33/1 shot Nick Rockett last year, who was declared a non-runner this year – is on his dad’s other major fancy, Grangeclare West.

A number of other horses such as Jagwar, Iroko and Panic Attack are high up in the betting as a fascinating race looks set to be contested once more.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s race:
When and where is the Grand National 2026?

The Grand National takes place at Aintree on Saturday, 11 April, with the race starting at 4pm BST.

Who are the runners and riders for the Grand National 2026?

The field was made official with Wednesday morning’s final declarations, as a full field of 34 horses was announced.

Reigning Grand National champion Nick Rockett will not compete after being declared a non-runner on Thursday morning due to a cough, while Spillane’s Tower and Pied Piper also pulled out.

Here are the latest odds from the best betting sites, while you can find Grand National free bets here .

How can I watch the Grand National 2026?

You can watch the race on ITV1 with ITV Racing broadcasting the racing throughout the week, with three days of action for fans to get stuck into.

Saturday 11 April - Grand National
12:45 - Hallgarten & Novum Wines Maghull Novices' Chase (Grade 1) 2m
13:20 - William Hill Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) 3m ½f
13:55 - Turners Mersey Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m 4f
14:30 - William Hill Handicap Chase (Registered As The Freebooter Handicap Chase) (Premier Handicap) 3m 1f
15:05 - Liverpool Hurdle (Grade 1) 3m ½f
16:00 - Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Class 1) (Premier Handicap) 4m 2½f
17:00 - Weatherbys Nhstallions.Co.Uk Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade 2) 2m 1f
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