Grand National 2021: When is the Grand National? How can I watch? What TV channel is it on? Latest odds and weather forecast

Grand National Handicap Chase at Aintree Racecourse. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

The Grand National takes place at Aintree today after a two-year absence due to Covid-19.

The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic forced organisers to cancel the prestigious steeplechase in 2020, but Europe’s most valuable jump race is all set to go once more – albeit without it’s usual throng of spectators.

Both the 2018 and 2019 Grand Nationals were won by Tiger Roll, but the Irish-bred thoroughbred, won’t be attempting to emulate the legendary Red Rum and win a third title as he won’t be running in the showpiece event, having run on Thursday in a different race at the meeting

With a new champion set to be crowned and plenty of anticipation, we’ve gathered all the information you need to know about the 2021 Grand National.

When is the Grand National?

This year’s race takes place today at 5.15pm.

How can I watch the Grand National – which TV channel is it on?

The big race will be shown on ITV One, and will make up part of ITV’s extensive coverage of the festival as a whole.

The free-to-air channel will be covering Aintree from 2pm to 6.15pm today.

Here is the full schedule of today’s televised races:

Saturday, April 10

14:25 The Betway Mersey Novices' Hurdle Race (Grade 1) - 2m 4f

15:00 The Doom Bar Maghull Novices' Steeple Chase (Grade 1) - 2m

15:35 The Ryanair Stayers Hurdle Race (Registered As The Liverpool Hurdle Race) (Grade 1) - 3m 1⁄2f

16:15 The Betway Handicap Steeple Chase (Grade 3) - 3m 1f

17:15 The Randox Grand National Handicap Steeple Chase (Grade 3) - 4m 21⁄2f

What is the weather forecast for the Grand National?

Although there is a possibility of rain earlier in the day, at the time writing conditions on Merseyside are expected to be dry and bright by the time the race gets underway at 5.15pm.

Who is the favourite?

At the time of writing, Cloth Cap, trained by Jonjo O’Neill is the favourite, priced at 11/2, ahead of Burrows Saint at 15/2 and Minella Times at 8/1.