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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of a 34-strong lineup for the Randox Grand National, seeking to replicate Red Rum's historic achievement of reclaiming the title after a loss. Red Rum, Ginger McCain's legendary horse, won in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, secured a victory two years ago under 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' prospects have improved. Mullins also fields Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon. Rebecca Curtis' Haiti Couleurs aims to make history by becoming the first horse to win the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Meanwhile, Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero have strong contenders in Iroko and Jagwar, both owned by JP McManus. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished tenth last year, has rekindled his connections' National ambitions following a Becher Chase win, and will be ridden by 21-year-old Beau Morgan. Trainer Pauling noted, '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 just hold our own on the second circuit, as we know he stays very well, then we'll see if we can beat last year's result.' With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the stage is set for an exciting Grand National.