I Am Maximus Leads Grand National Lineup After Nick Rockett's Withdrawal

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners as he attempts to replicate Red Rum's achievement in Saturday's Randox Grand National. No horse has won the prestigious steeplechase, lost the title, and then reclaimed it since Red Rum's victories in 1973, 1974, and 1977. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, won the Grand National two years ago with Paul Townend and was narrowly beaten by stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. However, I Am Maximus' chances have improved with Nick Rockett's withdrawal due to a cough. Mullins also has Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon in the running. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs is also vying for a historic win, as no horse has won the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other notable contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother, bolstering Ireland's strong presence. 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 aspirations after winning the Becher Chase earlier this season. Pauling stated, 'He acts on the track and enjoys it, having won the Becher. If we can get him into a rhythm closer to the pace, that would be better.' With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the final field is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase.