ITV slammed for Grand National coverage of scary Broadway Boy fall

Grand National Viewers Express Concern Over Lack of Immediate Update on Fallen Horse Broadway Boy

Coverage of the Grand National steeplechase on ITV has drawn criticism from viewers who voiced their anger over the perceived lack of immediate information regarding Broadway Boy, a horse who experienced a significant fall during the race. The incident occurred as Broadway Boy led the field, four fences from the finish, and the seven-year-old gelding remained down after the fall. Spectators watching the broadcast were understandably anxious about the horse’s condition, but ITV’s initial broadcast commentary refrained from directly addressing the incident, sparking viewer reaction online.

Viewer Reactions on Social Media

Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), became a hub for viewers to express their dissatisfaction. One user posted:

• “The TV commentary is overemphasizing the post-race care horses receive, yet conspicuously absent is any mention of Broadway Boy, the horse that fell and remained motionless. Transparency should be comprehensive, not selectively applied. #grandnational”

Another viewer echoed this sentiment, stating:

• “ITV touts ‘fantastic protocols’ after the race, yet fails to mention Broadway Boy. They appear to be glossing over the incident, hoping it goes unnoticed. This is unacceptable.”

Further expressions of concern included:

• “Honestly, the race winner is irrelevant. My heart is broken after witnessing Broadway Boy’s fall. Absolutely distressing scenes.”
• “As a racing enthusiast, I find it indefensible that viewers were not promptly informed about the horses that fell, especially Broadway Boy.”

Delayed Update from ITV

The mounting viewer concern was evident in online comments, with one stating:

• “Nobody cares about the victor right now; we urgently need an update on the well-being of this beautiful horse after his terrible fall, ITV!!!”

ITV’s Official Update

Approximately thirty minutes after the Grand National concluded, ITV presenter Ed Chamberlain addressed the situation, providing a brief update: “Regarding the horses and jockeys, all jockeys are confirmed to be fine. An initial report following the Grand National indicates that Broadway Boy and Celebre D’Allen are currently being assessed by specialist veterinary teams. Further updates will be provided as they become available.”

Race Outcome Overshadowed by Horse Welfare Concerns

While Nick Rockett, ridden by jockey Patrick Mullins, ultimately won the Grand National, the victory was somewhat diminished by the preceding moments of worry surrounding Broadway Boy and Celebre D’Allen. I Am Maxium secured second place, followed by Grangeclare West, Iroko, and Meetingofthewaters completing the top five.

Nick Rockett’s owner, Stewart Andrew, commented on the win: “I’m speechless. Truly exceptional. Despite many dismissing the horse’s chances and shifting betting odds, he convincingly won the two major trial races in Ireland. He is a horse of exceptional quality and possesses incredible determination.”