Grand National 2026. Full Guide to Aintree Festival, Races and Favourites

The greatest show in racing arrives this weekend as Grand National Festival returns to Aintree Racecourse. More than 150,000 racegoers are expected across the three-day event on Merseyside, with Aintree having hosted the world-famous meeting since 1839.

From Thursday’s opening card through to Saturday’s showpiece. The Grand National 2026 delivers three days of elite jump racing that few sporting events can match. Here is everything you need to know about the grand national horse racing event, including the race schedule, key races and favourites.

Thursday 9 April, Opening Day

The action gets underway on Thursday with the first race at around 1:45pm (UK time), setting the tone for the entire Grand National Festival 2026.

Opening Day features top-class Grade 1 racing, including:

Manifesto Novices’ Chase (2m 4f)

Aintree Bowl (3m 1f) £250,000 prize money

Aintree Hurdle (2m 4f)

The highlight of the day is the Aintree Hurdle, a race that regularly attracts some of the best hurdlers in the sport.

Meanwhile, the Red Rum Handicap Chase closes out the major action. Named after the legendary Red Rum, the only horse to win the National three times. It remains a fan favourite every year.

Friday 10 April, Ladies Day

Ladies Day is one of the biggest social events in British sport, combining fashion, atmosphere and high-quality racing.

Off the track, it’s all about style and energy. On it, the racing is just as strong, with key races including:

Melling Chase (2m 4f) £250,000

Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (3m)

The Melling Chase is often one of the standout races of the entire festival, attracting top-class chasers.

In addition, the Topham Handicap Chase is run over the famous Grand National fences. It gives punters an early look at the course ahead of Saturday’s main race.

Saturday 11 April, Grand National Day

Everything builds towards the main event, the Grand National 2026.

Run over approximately 4 miles 2½ furlongs (6.9km). The race features 30 fences, including iconic obstacles like Becher’s Brook and The Chair. It remains the ultimate test of stamina, jumping ability and composure.

The race gets underway at 4:00pm (UK time), drawing millions of viewers worldwide.

Saturday’s card also includes:

Liverpool Hurdle (3m)

Maghull Novices’ Chase (2m)

Together, they ensure a full day of top-level racing before and after the headline event.

The Favourites to win the Grand National

As always, the big question is who wins the Grand National 2026.

I Am Maximus is once again among the favourites. The 2024 winner returned with a strong run in 2025 and remains one of the most consistent horses in the field. However, carrying top weight is a major challenge, something very few horses have overcome in modern times.

Grangeclare West has strengthened his case with solid recent form, including a key prep run earlier in the season. He looks like one of the main dangers.

Jagwar is another interesting contender. After a strong showing at Cheltenham, he steps up in distance again and while the trip is a question mark, his form suggests he could be competitive.

Nick Rockett, last year’s winner, returns with more weight to carry. That makes life tougher, but experience over the course always counts for plenty.

Trainer Willie Mullins will also be in the spotlight as he looks to continue his dominance in the world’s biggest steeplechase.

The word around the race course

The Grand National Festival 2026 is more than just a race. It’s a global sporting event packed with history, drama and unpredictability.

From Grade 1 championship races to the chaos and excitement of the Grand National itself, Aintree delivers three days of action that capture the imagination of racing fans and casual viewers alike.

Whether you’re studying the grand national favourites 2026 or simply enjoying the spectacle, one thing is certain all eyes will be on Aintree this weekend.