I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title

I Am Maximus made history at the 2026 Randox Grand National by becoming the first horse to reclaim the title since the legendary Red Rum. The race was filled with early drama, including the fall of last year's third-place finisher Grangeclare West and Panic Attack at the first and third fences, respectively. However, I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend, tracked the inside path and eventually stormed home to secure his second Grand National win. This achievement marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, who also saw his horse Iroko finish second. Trainer Willie Mullins, who joins an elite group of four-time National-winning handlers, praised I Am Maximus as a superb horse who received a fantastic ride from Townend. Mullins noted that the modern-day National might be changing, making it possible for top-weight horses to win. I Am Maximus's victory was a testament to his exceptional skill and the effective strategy employed by his team. The horse's ability to navigate the challenging course and outperform his competitors has solidified his position as a racing superstar. When asked about the possibility of I Am Maximus achieving a historic third win next year, Mullins expressed optimism, stating that the horse loves the National and jumps the fences exceptionally well. In another notable performance, Home By The Lee followed up his Stayers' Hurdle success at the Cheltenham Festival with a dominant display in the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, winning by seven lengths under the guidance of J J Slevin.