The Grand National will go ahead as planned on Saturday following speculation that the meeting could be postponed following the death of the Duke of Edinburgh.
The British Horseracing Authority and Jockey Club Racecourses had held discussions regarding the race after the death of Prince Philip, the Queen’s husband, was announced on Friday.
The duke and the Queen were married for more than 70 years and Philip dedicated decades of his life to royal duty as the longest-serving consort in British history.
There has been speculation that the Grand National could be postponed following the news, but shortly before 3pm a statement was issued to confirm the world’s most famous race would take place in its planned slot.
A statement read: “Jockey Club Racecourses has held discussions with the British Horseracing Authority regarding the staging of Randox Grand National Day tomorrow at Aintree Racecourse.
“Following consultation with Government, we can confirm that Randox Grand National Day will go ahead on Saturday 10th April 2021.
“Following the sad news of the death of the Duke of Edinburgh a two-minute silence will be held on course ahead of the 173rd Randox Grand National, jockeys will be invited to wear black armbands and flags will be flown at half-mast at the racecourse.
“ITV will broadcast its coverage of Randox Grand National Day on its main channel as scheduled.”
The BHA confirmed two-minute silences will be held at all meetings on Saturday.
Annamarie Phelps, chair of the BHA, said: “The British Horseracing Authority is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
“We owe him a considerable debt of gratitude for his many years of tireless public service and dedication. We offer our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family.”
