The Randox Grand National returns today as one of the world’s most famous horse races takes centre stage at Aintree once again.
2024 champion I Am Maximus is the favourite for glory in the 2026 running of the iconic steeplechase for Willie Mullins and JP McManus, with the likes of Panic Attack, Grangeclare West and Jagwar also thought to be in contention.
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However, last year’s winner Nick Rockett - who beat stablemate I Am Maximus by two-and-a-half lengths 12 months ago - was surprisingly declared as a non-runner on Thursday due to a cough.
“It is 72-hour declarations for the Grand National, and we wanted to give him every chance, but he gave a few coughs this morning and that made up our mind with him,” said jockey Patrick Mullins.
“It is frustrating, but it was a case of everything needed to go right to get him here and, unfortunately, we just didn't get everything go right. He could have run, but we didn't want to do that if he wasn't 110 per cent.
“You need to be 110 per cent to run in a race like the Grand National and, unfortunately, he is not at the moment. We will look at Punchestown now.”
First reserve Pied Piper cannot run for Gordon Elliott either after coming up lame, meaning Imperial Saint gets a starting berth in the National as Amirite also replaces Spillane's Tower.
I Am Maximus has been handed top weight by the handicapper for the race at 11st 12lb, which means he would have to equal the iconic Red Rum’s efforts from 1974 is he is to achieve another memorable victory on Saturday.
How to watch Grand National 2026
TV channel: In the UK, coverage of the third and final day of the 2026 Grand National Festival at Aintree is being broadcast live and free to air on ITV1 on Saturday from 12:45pm BST.
The main event is scheduled to begin at 4pm, with build-up from 3:15pm.
Live stream: The Grand National will also be available to watch live online via the ITVX app and website, which is free with a registration.
Live blog: Follow the race as it happens with Standard Sport’s live blog.
