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Cheltenham’s Surprises Behind Us, All Eyes Turn to the 2025 Grand National
From Festival shocks to Aintree anticipation – the storylines continue in British jump racing’s biggest spring showpiece
The 2025 Cheltenham Festival may have come to a close, but it leaves behind a storm of talking points, chief among them a surprisingly low attendance and a long list of beaten favourites. While the famed four-day meeting still drew headlines across the sporting world, they weren’t necessarily the headlines organisers had hoped for.
But while Cheltenham is in the rear-view mirror, the Randox Grand National 2025 looms large—and promises to be an unforgettable occasion. With Inothewayurthinkin, the early favourite, now shockingly withdrawn, the race has opened right up. The focus now shifts to Aintree Racecourse on Saturday, 5 April, for the running of what remains the world’s most iconic steeplechase.
Here’s a full look back at the aftermath of Cheltenham, what to expect from the Grand National, and how to watch all the action no matter where in the world you are.
Cheltenham Festival 2025: Low Attendance and Beaten Favourites Make Headlines
While Gold Cup day on the Friday drew over 60,000 spectators, hitting pre-pandemic levels, overall attendance across the week declined to approximately 45,000 per day, well down from 60,000+ in 2020. Whether down to rising costs, a shifting fanbase, or a changing sporting landscape, the drop has raised concerns for the future of jump racing’s flagship Festival.
Another major storyline was the succession of odds-on favourites failing to deliver. Punters expecting dominant displays from names like Constitution Hill, Majborough, Ballyburn, Jonbon, and even Gold Cup hero Galopin des Champs were left disappointed. In turn, bookmakers enjoyed a bumper Festival, while stunned backers were left scratching their heads.
The Grand National 2025: A Global Event Awaits
While Cheltenham may have thrown up surprises, the Grand National is no stranger to drama. The Aintree marathon is both a test of skill and stamina and a festival of its own, drawing millions of viewers each year and commanding the attention of punters, professionals and casual fans alike.
This year’s edition will take place on Saturday, 5 April, with a field of 34 runners battling it out over 4 miles, 2½ furlongs and 30 iconic fences, including Becher’s Brook, The Chair, and Canal Turn.
Shock Withdrawal Opens Up Betting Market
At one stage, the betting for the 2025 Grand National was being dominated by Inothewayurthinkin, who surged to favouritism after his surprise victory over Galopin des Champs in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Trained by Gavin Cromwell, the Irish star was seen as the one to beat—until connections made the shock decision to withdraw himfollowing his tough Gold Cup exertions.
With that door now closed, the betting market has shifted dramatically:
- Intense Raffles – Now the narrow favourite at 6/1, the French-trained star has proven staying credentials, including a victory in last year’s Irish Grand National, although recent form questions remain.
- Iroko – Also priced at 6/1, this progressive chaser arrives fresh, having skipped Cheltenham, and carries strong support under the green-and-gold silks of JP McManus.
- I Am Maximus – The defending champion remains a major player. After capturing hearts and headlines in 2024, he returns to Aintree with a serious chance of joining a rare club of back-to-back winners.
The Grand National may be wide open, but it’s also full of potential storylines—and that’s what keeps fans coming back, year after year.
Where to Watch the 2025 Grand National
🇬🇧 In the United Kingdom
ITV1 is once again the official broadcaster of the Grand National, continuing its coverage of British racing’s biggest events. The network will provide comprehensive, live coverage throughout the day, including expert analysis, jockey interviews, and full race build-up.
For those preferring to stream the race, the ITVX app and website offer full access across smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs.
Did you know? The Grand National was broadcast by the BBC from 1960 to 2012, before moving briefly to Channel 4. Since 2017, ITV has held the rights and transformed the coverage into a slick, modern experience for new and lifelong fans alike.
🇦🇺 Watching from Australia
The Grand National’s reach extends far beyond Britain’s borders. For Australian fans, coverage will be available through Sky Racing, accessible via Foxtel. The race typically airs live in the early hours of Sunday morning, Australian time—ideal for die-hard racing fans or curious night owls.
🇺🇸 Watching from the United States
While American racing fans are traditionally more focused on the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown, the Grand National has carved out a niche audience in the States.
- TVG, a popular US racing channel, and the New York Racing Association (NYRA) will offer coverage and streaming options.
- The race is expected to begin at 11:00 AM Eastern Time (8:00 AM Pacific), making it a breakfast-time blockbuster for American viewers.
🇪🇺 Watching Across Europe
Racing fans across Europe can tune in via Viaplay, which broadcasts in a number of countries. Additionally, Eurosport often provides live streaming or highlights packages online. Availability may vary depending on national broadcasting agreements, so checking local schedules and sports streaming packages is recommended.
Final Thoughts: From Festival Falls to National Glory?
The Cheltenham Festival may have stunned the racing world with upsets and underwhelming crowds, but the Grand National represents the sport’s chance to reclaim centre stage—not just in Britain, but across the globe.
With the form book in flux and a wide-open betting market, this year’s edition promises to be as thrilling and unpredictable as ever. Whether you’re backing a favourite or taking a flyer on a long shot, one thing is certain: the world will be watching when the tapes go up at Aintree on 5 April 2025.
Make sure you are too.
