2024 Grand National Changes: Five Major Changes To Aintree Showpiece

The BHA and Jockey Club have announced some major changes to the Grand National ahead of the 2024 running on April 14, with the biggest of them seeing the field size reduced to 34 runners from 40. We take a look at the five changes made to the iconic Aintree showpiece here...

One of the biggest sporting spectacles will have a new look in 2024 as the Grand National will only see 34 horses line up for the world's greatest steeplechase at Aintree on an April afternoon, after the BHA & Jockey Club announced they are making changes to the race. Not only will the field size be significantly reduced, but the time of the race will be altered and the recent 17:15 slot will be replaced by an earlier start time.

Major Changes To Grand National 

• Maximum number of runners cut from 40 to 34.
• First of the 16 fences moved 60 yards closer to stop horses running too fast at the start. - A standing start will also be used to get the 2024 Grand National under way
• Off time of17:15 brought forward to ensure the best ground conditions.
• Running rail altered to help capture loose horses.
• Minimum handicap rating raised to 130 from 125.

Nevin Truesdale, Chief Executive of The Jockey Club, said the changes to the Grand National are part of the organisation’s “relentless focus on welfare”.

He said: “The Randox Grand National is the most iconic race in the world and one which transcends our sport. It is part of the fabric of British sporting life alongside the likes of Wimbledon, the FA Cup and the Open golf and is loved and watched by millions of people all over the world every year. For many it is also their introduction to horseracing and I believe that a competitive, fair and safe Randox Grand National is one of the best ways of ensuring the sport continues to thrive for generations to come and remains an important part of Britain’s culture and economy.

“That means our sport, like many other sports have done, needs to recognise when action needs to be taken to evolve because the safety and care of horses and jockeys will always be our number one priority. In making these changes at Aintree we are underlining our relentless focus on welfare and our commitment to powering the future of British racing.” “The Grand National is the showcase event for a sport I love dearly. It’s iconic and I don’t think you can overstate how important the Grand National is – it’s a Saturday in April when non-racing people watch our sport. People enjoy it and it’s up to us in racing to make sure that they continue to enjoy it.

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Retired jockey Ruby Walsh, who rode two Grand National winners on Papillon (2000) and Hedgehunter (2005) said:  “I think these changes represent the evolution of the Grand National. The world is ever-changing and the Grand National and indeed horseracing, like any other sport, has to be prepared to change. Risk can never be removed but you have to try and minimise it.

“Horse welfare is a huge part of horseracing – it’s a team sport between horse and rider and we are responsible for the welfare of the horse. I think the changes announced today by The Jockey Club will enhance the Grand National as a horse race and help to ensure its future.

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