Rachael Blackmore takes on new Grand National challenge
Rachael Blackmore will join the ITV Racing presenting team at Aintree for its coverage of the Randox Grand National on Saturday (11 April)
www.horseandhound.co.ukI'm going to summarize the latest publicly available coverage on Rachael Blackmore and the Grand National. Then I'll provide key highlights and context.Here’s the latest on Rachael Blackmore and the Grand National.
-
Retirement and current involvement: As of early 2026, Rachael Blackmore announced her retirement from active race-riding at the end of the 2025 jumps season. She has since been involved in the sport in other capacities, including media work and being honored at Aintree as a Grand National Legend. This marks a shift from riding to ambassadorial and presenter roles within the sport.[1][2][4]
-
2026 Grand National context: Blackmore is not riding in the 2026 Grand National due to her retirement from race-riding, but she remains a prominent figure in Grand National coverage and celebrations, including appearances as part of ITV Racing’s broadcast team and public recognition at the festival.[2][1]
-
Notable recent milestones: In 2026, she publicly celebrated her marriage to Brian Hayes and later received a Grand National Legend honor at Aintree, underscoring her lasting impact on the event beyond her on-track winning record (notably the 2021 victory on Minella Times).[4][1]
-
Ongoing association with racing: Although retired from riding, Blackmore’s presence in media, events, and industry discussions continues to influence fan engagement and the narrative around the Grand National, including media appearances and industry commentary about the race.[2][4]
Illustrative context
- Blackmore won the Grand National in 2021 aboard Minella Times, becoming the first woman to do so, a milestone often revisited in profiles and anniversary coverage during 2025–2026.[3][1]
If you’d like, I can pull more specific articles or set up a quick timeline of her Grand National involvement from 2021 through 2026 with brief summaries. Sources cited: statements on retirement and post-racing activities, ITV Racing involvement and Grand National Legend honor, and 2021 victory context.[1][4][2]