The excitement is palpable as the 2025 Grand National at Aintree approaches, with 34 horses ready to tackle one of the most prestigious events in horse racing. Scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, the race is set to begin at 4 PM BST, and it’s already generating buzz among fans and punters alike.
Among the contenders is the renowned I Am Maximus, who aims to defend his title after a spectacular victory in 2024. The horse, trained by Gordon Elliott, has been installed as the favorite once again, carrying a weight of 11st 12lbs off a mark of 167. If successful, he would become the highest-rated winner of the 21st century, joining the ranks of legendary horses like Red Rum, who famously won the Grand National three times.
However, the competition is fierce. I Am Maximus will face off against formidable rivals including Minella Indo, who boasts a rich history including a win at the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2021 and a third-place finish in last year’s Grand National. Rachael Blackmore, the first female jockey to win the Grand National, is set to ride Minella Indo for the seventh time, expressing her enthusiasm: “I’m really looking forward to riding Minella Indo in the Grand National again. He’s such a brilliant horse, he’s such a joy to have anything to do with, and he’s in great form.”
Blackmore’s record in the Grand National is impressive, with notable performances including her victory in 2021 on Minella Times, which marked a historic moment for female jockeys. Minella Indo, trained by Henry de Bromhead, has dropped to a career-low handicap mark of 158, making him a strong contender despite being winless in two starts this season.
As the race day approaches, the atmosphere at Aintree is electric. The Grand National is not just a race; it’s a cultural phenomenon, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. In 2024, over six million fans tuned in to watch the event, and this year is expected to attract even more attention. The race will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX, with coverage starting at 3:15 PM, ensuring that fans won’t miss a moment of the action.
The prize fund for the Grand National is an eye-watering £1 million, with the winner taking home £500,000. The stakes are high, and every horse in the race has a chance to make history. Other notable contenders include Iroko, Stumptown, Hewick, and Vanillier, all of whom have been performing well leading up to the event.
The Grand National is steeped in tradition and history, with its challenging course featuring 30 jumps over a four-and-a-quarter-mile route. The excitement of the race is matched only by the unpredictability of the outcome, as any horse can surprise on the day. As John “Shark” Hanlon, trainer of the underdog Hewick, stated, “There has only been one plan for this year and that plan has been in place for the last six months. The English National is the race we want and, please God, all we ask is a bit of luck now.”
With the race day finally here, anticipation is building. Fans are eager to see if I Am Maximus can repeat his success or if another horse will rise to the occasion. The Grand National has a way of creating unforgettable moments, and this year promises to be no different.
As the horses prepare for the race, the eyes of the world will be on Aintree, where dreams can be made or shattered in a matter of minutes. With a history of dramatic finishes and unexpected twists, the 2025 Grand National is poised to be a thrilling spectacle that will be talked about for years to come.
Fans can also look forward to a full day of racing, with several other exciting events scheduled throughout the day. The full schedule includes the William Hill Top Price Guarantee Handicap Hurdle at 1:20 PM, the Turners Mersey Novices' Hurdle at 1:55 PM, and the Liverpool Hurdle at 3:05 PM, leading up to the main event at 4 PM.
As the clock ticks down to race time, one thing is certain: the Grand National is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of horse racing, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of competition. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a casual viewer, the thrill of the Grand National is something that unites everyone. So grab your hats, place your bets, and get ready for a day of excitement at Aintree!
