Overview
- The final field and riders will be published on Wednesday, April 8, for the race on Saturday, April 11, moving the cut-off up by 24 hours.
- Reserves for the 34-runner race increase from four to six, with replacements permitted until 1pm on Friday, the day before the race.
- The Grand National keeps its 4pm post time, while racing on the day will begin at 12:45pm and both Grade 1 contests will be staged before the feature.
- Aintree and the Jockey Club say the move aligns the event with the Derby’s 72-hour model and global races such as the Melbourne Cup and Kentucky Derby, with BHA backing.
- Organisers indicate the changes, introduced from 2026 onward, aim to boost early engagement and manage a higher risk of non-runners.