I Am Maximus Leads Grand National Lineup as Nick Rockett Withdraws

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate the achievement of Red Rum by reclaiming the title. Red Rum, trained by Ginger McCain, won the prestigious steeplechase in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976. No horse has accomplished this feat since. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, won the Grand National two years ago with jockey Paul Townend and narrowly lost to stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. With Nick Rockett 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 seeks to make history by becoming the first horse to win the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother, bolstering Ireland's strong presence. Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero have high hopes with Iroko and Jagwar, both owned by JP McManus, who also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled National aspirations after winning the Becher Chase and will be ridden by 21-year-old Beau Morgan. Pauling noted, 'He acts on the track and enjoys it, having won the Becher. If we can get him into a rhythm closer to the pace, that would be ideal, as it's much harder to come from behind these days.' With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the lineup is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may also run in the Racing Welfare Bowl Chase, potentially allowing reserve Pied Piper to join the field.