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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate the legendary Red Rum's achievement of regaining the title after a loss. Red Rum won in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, won the Grand National two years ago and finished second to stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. With Nick Rockett now ruled out due to a cough, I Am Maximus' chances have improved. Mullins also has Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon in the lineup. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs is attempting to make history by winning 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, both owned by JP McManus. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year and won the Becher Chase, will be ridden by 21-year-old Beau Morgan. Pauling believes Twig can improve on last year's result if he can maintain a rhythm closer to the pace. With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the field is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in the Racing Welfare Bowl Chase, potentially allowing reserve Pied Piper to join the lineup.