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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of a 34-strong field for the Randox Grand National, aiming to replicate the achievements of Red Rum by reclaiming the title after previously winning and losing it. Red Rum's impressive record, which includes victories in 1973, 1974, and 1977, remains unmatched. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, won the Grand National two years ago under Paul Townend and narrowly missed a repeat victory in 2025 when Nick Rockett took the top spot. Following Nick Rockett's withdrawal due to a cough, I Am Maximus' prospects have improved. Mullins has a strong lineup, 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 also in the running, seeking to make history by becoming 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. Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero have high hopes with Iroko and Jagwar, while JP McManus' team includes Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled his connections' National dreams after winning the Becher Chase. Pauling expressed his strategy for the race, stating, 'He acts on the track, and 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 field is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase, potentially paving the way for reserve Pied Piper to join the field.