I Am Maximus Leads the Pack in Grand National Declarations After Nick Rockett's Withdrawal

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate the achievement of Red Rum, who last won the prestigious steeplechase after previously losing and regaining the title. Red Rum's remarkable record includes wins in 1973 and 1974, followed by second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976, before securing a third victory in 1977. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, is attempting to make history by becoming the first dual winner since Tiger Roll, having won two years ago with Paul Townend and finishing second to stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. However, I Am Maximus' chances have improved with the news that Nick Rockett has been ruled out of the race due to a cough. Mullins has a strong contingent, including Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs is also vying for a historic win, as no horse has previously won the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other notable contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother, who will be representing Ireland. Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero have high hopes with Iroko and Jagwar, both owned by JP McManus, who also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho on his team. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled his connections' National dreams after winning the Becher Chase earlier this season and will be ridden by 21-year-old Beau Morgan, the owner's son. Pauling commented, 'He ran well last year but was too far back; this time, we aim to get him into a rhythm closer to the pace, as it's harder to come from behind.' With the final field declared, the stage is set for an exciting Grand National, and the latest horse racing news, interviews, and features can be found on Sky Sports Racing.