Find out what time the Grand National 2026 starts today from Aintree Racecourse.
Grand National Start Time
The Grand National race is scheduled to begin at 16:00 GMT. The earlier start time has been introduced in recent years to account for quicker ground conditions later in the afternoon, helping to ensure a safer and more competitive race.
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The Grand National remains one of the most iconic events in world sport, staged each year at Aintree Racecourse.
Run over a demanding four and a quarter miles, it is the longest race in the British calendar and presents a unique test of stamina, jumping and luck. With a maximum field of 34 runners, it is also one of the most unpredictable betting events of the year.
The famous three day festival begins on Thursday 9 April, with Ladies Day following on Friday 10 April, before the main event on Saturday.
More than £3 million in prize money is on offer across the meeting, with the Grand National itself worth £1 million.
The race’s reputation for shocks is well earned. Over the years, there have been multiple winners returned at odds of 100/1, highlighting just how open the contest can be despite the presence of leading contenders.
