The 2025 Grand National is poised to be an exciting event, with 34 runners gearing up to compete for glory at Aintree. Among the favourites is last year’s winner, I Am Maximus, aiming to secure back-to-back victories and join the ranks of legendary horses like Red Rum and Tiger Roll.
The main event is scheduled to kick off at 4pm this Saturday, April 5, and will be broadcast live on ITV 1. The race is the highlight of the three-day meet at Aintree, with the festival’s opening day set for Thursday. ITV 1 will cover all three days of the event from 1:30pm to 5pm on Thursday and Friday, and from 12:45pm to 5pm on Saturday.
Owner J.P. McManus has a strong contender in I Am Maximus and Iroko, with Stumptown also emerging as a top candidate. The race boasts a diverse field of 34 horses, with the final spot yet to be filled. Some notable runners include I Am Maximus, Stumptown, Iroko, and Intense Raffles, among others, each vying for the coveted title.
The prize pot for the Grand National stands at an impressive £1 million, making it the most significant prize in UK horse racing. The top ten runners will share the winnings, with the winning jockey set to receive around an 8% cut of the total earnings. Owners of the horses will take home the lion’s share of the prize money.
Weather forecasts predict ideal conditions for the Grand National, with Aintree Race Course expected to be bathed in sunshine, reaching a high of 16 degrees. The track’s conditions are likely to be good to soft, providing an optimal setting for the intense competition ahead.
The Grand National will feature a full schedule of events, including races like the William Hill Top Price Guarantee Handicap Hurdle Race and the Randox Grand National Handicap Steeple Chase, culminating in the main event. With 34 horses navigating the four-mile course and tackling 30 fences, the race promises thrilling action and suspense for spectators.
Over the years, the Grand National has seen remarkable victories and upsets, with records set by iconic winners like Mr Frisk and Peter Simple. The event’s rich history includes heart-stopping finishes and unexpected triumphs, creating a legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
In conclusion, the 2025 Grand National is set to be a spectacle of speed, skill, and determination, as 34 talented runners compete for supremacy on the renowned Aintree course. With favourites like I Am Maximus and a competitive field of contenders, the race promises high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments for racing enthusiasts and spectators alike.