I Am Maximus Leads the Pack in Grand National Declarations After Nick Rockett's Withdrawal

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate the success of Red Rum by reclaiming the title. Red Rum made history by winning in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976. 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 also has Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon in the running. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs is seeking to make history by becoming the first horse to win the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other strong contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother. 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 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 better. If he can travel in the first half of the field on the first circuit and hold his own on the second, then we'll see if we can beat last year's result.' With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, Pied Piper is the first reserve and could join the field if any of the declared runners are unable to participate.