It’s important that you keep up-to-date with the latest happenings ahead of the 2024 Grand National and here at grand-national.uk you can read all the latest Grand National news as well as take full advantage of a great range of Grand National free bets which are available when you sign-up with any of our featured UK bookmaker partners.
All you need to know about the 2024 Grand National
Major changes have been made to the world’s most famous steeplechase after a controversial renewal of the contest in 2023.
Grand National Weights
The weights for the 2024 Grand National have been released and Hewick has been handed the biggest burden, the Irish-based King George VI winner given a top weight of 11st 12lbs for the famous steeplechase on 13th April. The 2023 Grand National winner Corach Rambler has been handed a tasty 11st 2lbs in a new look field of 34 which the handicapper, Martin Greenwood, has described as being ‘strong on quality’.
The paucity of British staying chasers was evident at the entry stage of the contest when it was two thirds Irish against one third from this side of the Irish Sea, however a mere seven of the top 34 are British-trained. Three of these – Dusart, Le Milos and Threeunderthrufive – may not even start. It has been suggested (jokingly, perhaps) that the weights lunch should be held in Dublin next year, instead of Liverpool!
When is the 2024 Grand National?
The Grand National is the feature race of the three-day Grand National Festival which will take place between Thursday, 11th April and Saturday, 13th April 2024. The Grand National itself takes place on Saturday afternoon.
What time does the race start?
The start time of the Grand National has been brought forward from its traditional 5.15pm slot to 4pm. This change has been decided upon in order to improve the likelihood of good ground.
Are there still tickets available?
Most stands and terraces for Grand National day itself have sold out, however some areas of the racecourse have limited availability and you will find details at the official Jockey Club website.
How many horses contest the race?
The number of horses taking part in the Grand National has been reduced from 40 to 34 as part of an exercise to improve safety for both riders and horses. The highest ever field size was in 1929 when 66 runners contested the race, while there were only ten starters in 1883.
When are the horses announced?
The final line-up of 34 runners will be announced 48 hours before the start of the Grand National and if any horses are withdrawn after the 48-hour declaration stage, they won’t be replaced.