Investment in the Future of Racing: Vital for a Vibrant Sector for the Next 30 Years

Scores of protesters were attempting to disrupt the Randox Grand National event. Some were trying to scale perimeter fences while others were attempting to glue themselves to the course fences. Police, security, and locals were working to stop them, with riot vans and trained dogs being utilized. BBC Radio 5 Live commentator Darren Owen later described the situation as “like a war zone.”

The animal rights activists, organized by the protest group Animal Rising, failed to prevent the event from taking place but caused a 14-minute delay to the race. Their actions made a strong impression as millions of viewers tuned in to watch. This incident emphasized the increasing public interest in racehorse welfare, with the Grand National becoming a focal point for such concerns.