I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title

I Am Maximus made history at the 2026 Randox Grand National by becoming the first horse to reclaim the title since the legendary Red Rum. The race saw early drama with Grangeclare West and Panic Attack experiencing setbacks, but I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend, tracked the inside path to victory. The heavily-backed 9-2 favorite stormed home after the final jump to win the race for a second time, also having finished second the previous year. This marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, with his Iroko taking second place. Trainer Willie Mullins, who joins Red Rum's trainer Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell as a four-time National-winning handler, praised I Am Maximus as a superb horse who got a fantastic ride. Mullins noted that the modern-day National might be changing, making it possible for top-weight horses to win. I Am Maximus's victory was a historic moment, with the horse's toughness and ability to gallop to the end praised by jockey Paul Townend. The win was also a testament to the horse's love for the National and its ability to jump fences well, with owner JP McManus keen on returning to the National next year.