How Many Horses in the Grand National 2026?

The Randox Grand National is almost upon us. At 16:00 BST on Saturday, April 11, the annual showpiece will bring Britain to a standstill. Millions of people per year clutch their betting slips or their smartphones, willing on one of the runners in the iconic race. But exactly how many horses are in the Grand National 2026?

*For those looking to head straight to Betfred's Grand National Betting Market, then please click on the Yellow Button link below

The answer is 34. The Grand National was reduced to 40 runners in 2024 due to safety concerns. The field is now down to 34 runners, with six reserve horses should any of the fantastic 34 be unable to race.

For a full list of the runners and riders complete with Betfred odds, check out our dedicated Grand National Betting Hub.

The process begins in earnest in February, when a 78-horse longlist is announced for the Grand National. That field is then whittled down to the 34 horses taking part. Like a World Cup provisional squad, but presumably without the awkward conversations with the unsuccessful horses.

Nick Rockett won the 2025 Randox Grand National and was set to defend the title, but is now a non-runner. 2024 victor I Am Maximus is in the house, attempting to become the first top weight winner since Red Rum all the way back in 1974.

You can check out all of our Grand National Tips as well as the profiles for all the other horses running in the race on our main Grand National page…