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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of a 34-strong field of runners as he strives to replicate the legendary Red Rum's feat in Saturday's Randox Grand National. No horse has achieved this since Red Rum, who won in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with a second-place finish in 1975 and 1976. Willie Mullins' I Am Maximus, set to wear cheekpieces for the second time, previously won the event two years ago with Paul Townend and was narrowly beaten by stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. Following Nick Rockett's withdrawal due to a cough, I Am Maximus' prospects have improved. Mullins has a strong lineup, 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 won the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other notable contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother. 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 ambitions after winning the Becher Chase earlier this season. Pauling noted, '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 field is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase.