Irish Grand National 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Excitement is building across the racing world as the Boylesports Irish Grand National 2026 approaches. This prestigious National Hunt event, held at the historic Fairyhouse Racecourse in County Meath, Ireland, promises a thrilling spectacle for fans and punters alike.
Date, Time, and Venue
The 2026 Irish Grand National is scheduled for today, Easter Monday, April 6. The race will get underway at 5pm, serving as the centrepiece of an action-packed eight-race card at Fairyhouse Racecourse, a venue steeped in racing tradition.
TV Coverage and Broadcasting Details
For viewers in Ireland, the race will be broadcast live on RTÉ2, with comprehensive coverage starting earlier in the afternoon. Racing enthusiasts in the United Kingdom can tune in to ITV1 or Racing TV to catch every moment of the marathon contest, including all 24 fences.
Historical Significance and Prize Money
Established in 1870, the Irish Grand National is one of the most esteemed events in the National Hunt calendar. It features a gruelling distance of roughly 3 miles and 5 furlongs and boasts a massive €500,000 prize pot, attracting elite chasers from around the globe.
2025 Winner and Absence of Defending Champion
Last year's champion was Haiti Couleurs, who secured a spectacular victory for trainer Rebecca Curtis and jockey Sean Bowen in the 2025 renewal. However, the defending champion will not be in today's line-up. Due to the Aintree Grand National occurring in the same week, connections have opted to send Haiti Couleurs to Liverpool to compete in the English equivalent instead.
Favourite and Key Contenders
Leading the betting markets this year is The Jukebox Kid, trained by Ben Pauling. This runner has seen significant support after a dominant performance at Ascot earlier this season, aiming to keep the trophy in British hands for a second consecutive year.
Master trainer Willie Mullins holds a powerful hand with Kiss Will and Argento Boy both sitting high in the odds. Kiss Will is particularly well-fancied, having been selected by stable jockey Paul Townend, indicating it is the pick of the formidable Closutton squad.
Other notable contenders include Soldier In Milan, trained by the shrewd Emmet Mullins, and top-weight Better Days Ahead, who finished sixth in this race last year. With ground conditions currently described as yielding to soft, these stayers will need immense stamina to navigate the final straight and secure a place in Irish racing history.
Additional Racing Information
The Grand National 2026 at Aintree is also on the horizon, with the world-famous racecourse set to host three days of racing across April 9-11. Tickets for that event start from £33.50 at The Jockey Club, with VIP and hospitality packages available from £249 at Seat Unique.
