Whilst we’ve lost out on the real Grand National and all the anticipation of Tiger Roll’s possible 3 in a row attempt, we can at least be thankful that we have an alternative to look forward to: The Virtual Grand National!

Following the cancellation of the actual physical event due to the Coronavirus pandemic, ITV Racing has announced a virtual simulation of the event will be shown. The race is to be broadcast on April 4 at 17:00 and will involve the 40 runners who would have been most likely to participate so we could yet see the VIRTUAL Tiger Roll get a win. The race is worked out via CGI technology and special algorithms.

It’s very sad not to have the real race, but Inspired’s virtual race is fascinating and fun and has proven since 2017 to be incredibly accurate.

It is brave to preview the most unpredictable race of all, but also great fun. In these difficult times we want the public to simply enjoy the race that sadly never was and think about what might have been.”

Rob McLoughlin, Executive Producer

In 2017, Cause Of Causes won the Virtual Grand National and came a close second in the real race hours later.”

The 2018 result was breathtaking as Tiger Roll won both in almost identical circumstances and the computer chose three of the top five finishers, including Tiger Roll, in 2019.

My team have been working round the clock to make this year even more realistic than ever, and we can’t wait to screen the Red Rum versus Tiger Roll match. It’s terrific TV.”

Steve Rogers, chief commercial officer for Virtual Sports at Inspired

How can I watch the race?

The Virtual Grand National will be shown live on ITV at 5pm this Saturday, April 4.

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