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Racing at Aintree is officially underway for the 2026 Grand National festival week. The biggest names in horse racing have descended upon Merseyside for an opening day filled with seven spectacular events. The 4.05pm Aintree Hurdle is today's major race but there are plenty of twists and turns before then.

Big news already arrived before a horse had left the starting gate, as last year's Grand National race winner, Nick Rockett, has been withdrawn from this weekend's race. The Willie Mullins horse had been reported to be coughing, and the decision was made to pull him out, just a day after the 2026 field was announced.

First reserve Pied Piper, trained by three-time winner Gordon Elliott, has taken the spare place in the 34-runner field and I Am Maximus is the favourite.

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The opening race of the festival on Thursday begins at 1.45pm and the final race is scheduled for 5.15pm, meaning there will be no shortage of excitement throughout.

The action will be shown on ITV1 and ITVX apart from the day's final race, with the broadcast ending at 5pm and then replaced by Racing TV.

You can also keep up to date completely with Express Sport's live blog, covering all the action, news and updates from day one, including the best picks from our award-winning tipster.

13:45: Boodles Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1) - Mange Tout

14:20: William Hill Manifesto Novices' Chase (Grade 1) - Koktail Divin

14:55: Racing Welfare Bowl Chase (Grade 1) - TBD

15:30: Randox Foxhunters' Open Hunters' Chase - TBD

16:05: William Hill Aintree Hurdle (Grade 1) - TBD

16:40: Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) - TBD

17:15: Goffs Nickel Coin Mares' Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade 2) - TBD