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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of a 34-horse field for the Randox Grand National, as he seeks to replicate the legendary Red Rum's feat of reclaiming the title. Red Rum's historic wins in 1973, 1974, and 1977 serve as a benchmark, with no horse having achieved this since. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, is poised to make history, having won the event two years ago and finishing as runner-up in 2025 to stablemate Nick Rockett. However, with Nick Rockett's withdrawal due to a cough, I Am Maximus' chances have improved significantly. Mullins has a strong contingent, including Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon. Other notable contenders include Haiti Couleurs, aiming to become the first horse to win the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals, and a strong Irish challenge led by Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother. Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero also have promising chances with Iroko and Jagwar, while Ben Pauling's Twig, a Becher Chase winner, is another horse to watch, ridden by the owner's son, Beau Morgan. Pauling expressed his hopes for Twig, stating that if the horse can maintain a rhythm and stay close to the pace, it could lead to a strong finish. With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the stage is set for an exciting Grand National.