397: Why was the Grand National so eventful? | The Front Page

This week's episode of The Front Page dives deep into the 2026 Randox Grand National, a race marked by dramatic falls, a thrilling finish, and emotional weight. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and owned by J.P. McManus, claimed victory for the third consecutive year, sparking debate over whether he can emulate Red Rum’s legendary three-time success. The episode explores the race’s unpredictability—14 horses fell or unseated—leading to reflections on how the Grand National has evolved: safer fences, higher-quality horses, but perhaps less of the old-school drama and romance. Hosts Lee Motteson, Jonathan Harding, and Maddy Playle debate the balance between safety and spectacle, the changing nature of the sport’s narratives, and the emotional toll of a tragic incident during Friday’s card, where a horse suffered a fatal injury after a fall at the final fence. The conversation also turns to Dan Skelton’s historic season, culminating in a record-breaking year and a new title as champion trainer, and the ongoing fight against affordability checks in betting, with racing figures urging the government to reconsider their impact on the sport. Finally, anticipation builds for Constitution Hill’s first Group race start, with fans and experts alike watching closely to see if the jump spread star can make a leap to top-level flat racing.