I Am Maximus Leads the Field in Grand National Declarations Following Nick Rockett's Withdrawal

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, seeking to replicate the feat of Red Rum, who won the prestigious steeplechase in 1973, 1974, and 1977. Red Rum's remarkable achievement has yet to be matched, with no horse since then having won, lost, and regained the title. Willie Mullins' I Am Maximus, who will be wearing cheekpieces for the second time, won the Grand National two years ago with Paul Townend and narrowly missed a repeat victory in 2025, finishing behind stablemate Nick Rockett. However, with Nick Rockett ruled out of this year's race due to a cough, I Am Maximus' chances have improved significantly. Mullins also has a strong contingent, including Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs is aiming to make history as 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, all of which enhance Ireland's traditionally strong presence in the Grand National. Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero have high hopes with Iroko and Jagwar, both owned by JP McManus, who also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho on his team. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled his connections' National ambitions after winning the Becher Chase earlier this season. Pauling believes that if Twig can maintain a rhythm closer to the pace, he could potentially beat last year's result. With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the field is set for an exciting competition, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase, which could lead to Pied Piper taking the 34th spot for Gordon Elliott.