NEWS
1 April 2020
Operators to donate Virtual Grand National profits to NHS
By Iqbal Johal

It has been confirmed betting markets have opened up for the virtual race, with UK BGC members Bet365, William Hill, Flutter Entertainment, Sky Bet, GVC Holdings, BetFred, Betway, BetVictor, JenningsBet and Inspired Entertainment all committing to the initiative.

All profits will go to NHS Charities Together; the umbrella organisation which represents more than 140 NHS charities.

Stakes will be limited to £10 ($12.37) per horse per customer and the Tote will be providing a pool on the race, with proceeds also going to charity.

BGC CEO Michael Dugher said: "I am delighted our members have stepped up in this way to support the national effort to combat COVID-19 by contributing all of their race profits to NHS Charities Together.

"Millions of us love a flutter on the Grand National. For many, it’s the only time of the year they place a bet. This year, the big winner will be our NHS."

It was announced last week the virtual Grand National will replace the actual race, which was cancelled in March due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The race will be aired on ITV at 5pm on 4 April, featuring the 40 runners most likely to take part in the original, using CGI technology and special algorithms.