I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title

In a historic moment at the 2026 Randox Grand National, I Am Maximus became the first horse to reclaim the title since the legendary Red Rum. The race was marked by early drama, including the fall of Grangeclare West and Panic Attack, but I Am Maximus, under the skilled hands of Paul Townend, tracked the inside path to victory. A bold bid by Ben Jones on The Jukebox Man was overtaken by the heavily-backed 9-2 favourite I Am Maximus, who stormed home to win the race for a second time. This achievement marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, with Iroko finishing second, making it a first for one owner to have the first two places. Jordans took third place, followed by Johnnywho in fourth. Trainer Mullins, now a four-time National-winning handler, praised the horse and the strategic decision to keep him in Aintree, saying, "It was a good call from JP... Paul just executed it so well." Mullins also reflected on the changing nature of the modern-day National, suggesting that winning off top-weight might not be as hard as it once was. I Am Maximus's victory was hailed as a testament to the horse's superb ability and the effective ride by Townend, who navigated through challenges from stablemates and co-pilots. The win has sparked hopes that I Am Maximus could further emulate Red Rum with a historic third success next year, with both Mullins and owner JP McManus keen on another National run. Townend described I Am Maximus as "tough" and willing to "gallop to the end of the world," attributing part of the success to the use of cheekpieces. In another notable performance, Home By The Lee followed up his Stayers' Hurdle success at the Cheltenham Festival with a dominant display in the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, given an enterprising ride by J J Slevin to secure a seven-length victory.