I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title

In a historic moment, I Am Maximus became the first horse to reclaim the Grand National title since the legendary Red Rum, winning the 2026 Randox Grand National. The race was marked by early drama, including the separation of Grangeclare West from Patrick Mullins at the first fence and Panic Attack's fall at the third. I Am Maximus, skillfully ridden by Paul Townend, followed his familiar inside path. As the race unfolded, Ben Jones made a bold move on The Jukebox Man, but the heavily-backed 9-2 favorite, I Am Maximus, surged ahead after the final jump to secure his second Grand National win. This victory also marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, with his Iroko finishing second, a first for one owner to have the top two spots. Trainer Willie Mullins, now a four-time National-winning handler, praised the decision to keep I Am Maximus at Aintree, noting the horse's superb performance under Townend's ride. Mullins reflected on the challenge of winning off top weight but suggested the modern Grand National might be viewed differently. Jockey Paul Townend described I Am Maximus as 'tough' and willing to gallop to the end, attributing part of the success to the use of cheekpieces. In another notable performance, Home By The Lee dominated the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, following up his Stayers' Hurdle win at Cheltenham with a seven-length victory under J J Slevin. Trainer Joseph O'Brien credited the horse's ability to outstay the competition, employing a plan to inject pace down the back straight, which paid off as Home By The Lee outstayed all contenders.