I Am Maximus Leads Grand National Field After Nick Rockett Withdrawal

I Am Maximus tops the list of 34 declared runners for Saturday's Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate Red Rum's historic feat. Red Rum won the prestigious steeplechase in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with a second-place finish in 1975 and 1976. No horse has achieved this since Ginger McCain's legendary Aintree winner. 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. With Nick Rockett now ruled out due to a cough, I Am Maximus' chances have improved. Mullins has a strong team, including Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, and Lecky Watson. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs seeks to make history by winning the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, and Oscars Brother. JP McManus, owner of I Am Maximus, also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho on his team. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled his connections' National dreams after winning the Becher Chase. Trainer Pauling said, 'If we can get him into a rhythm closer to the pace, that would be better. He acts on the track and enjoys it there, having won the Becher.' With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the field is set for an exciting Grand National.