When is the Grand National 2026? Start time and how to watch on TV

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The biggest event in the horse racing calendar is back at Aintree, with I Am Maximus eyeing up redemption after missing out last year against Nick Rockett
The Grand National is here with Aintree hosting a festival of jump racing and the biggest race in the calendar.

Last year saw a thrilling race with Nick Rockett triumphing to beat the defending champion I Am Maximus.

Legendary horse racing trainer Willie Mullins will hope to triumph once again after his son, Patrick, was able to join the family celebrations by guiding Nick Rockett – a 33/1 shot on betting sites – to victory.

This year sees I Am Maximus return, with a great chance of two wins in three years, and jockey Paul Townend is back in the saddle, having clinched glory with the JP McManus-owned horse in 2024.

Townend, who saddled Gaelic Warrior to Gold Cup glory at Cheltenham last month , has not partnered up with I am Maximus in his three races since, but will do so for the National with Patrick Mullins being given his dad’s other fancied shot Grangeclare West as his ride this year.

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.

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.

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.

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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