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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared participants for the Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate the legendary Red Rum's achievement. Red Rum famously secured victories in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, won the Grand National two years ago under Paul Townend and was narrowly beaten by stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. With Nick Rockett now ruled out due to a cough, I Am Maximus' prospects have improved. 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 seeking to make history by becoming the first horse to win 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 strong chances with Iroko and Jagwar, while JP McManus also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho on his team. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled National aspirations following a Becher Chase victory and will be ridden by 21-year-old Beau Morgan. Pauling notes that Twig acts well on the track and enjoys the fences, and if he can maintain a rhythm closer to the pace, he may have a chance to beat last year's result. With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the lineup is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase, potentially paving the way for reserve Pied Piper to join the field.