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

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, seeking to replicate the achievement of Red Rum, who won the prestigious steeplechase three times. Red Rum's victories in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976, have yet to be matched by any horse since Ginger McCain's legendary Aintree winner. Willie Mullins' I Am Maximus, who will wear cheekpieces for the second time, having first done so in December 2022, won the Grand National two years ago under Paul Townend and was narrowly beaten by stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025. The news of Nick Rockett's withdrawal due to a cough has further bolstered I Am Maximus' chances. Mullins also has Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon in the running. Rebecca Curtis' Haiti Couleurs aims to make history by becoming the first horse to win the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. The Irish contingent, including Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother, is strong. 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 and won the Becher Chase, will be ridden by 21-year-old Beau Morgan, the owner's son. Pauling said, 'He ran well last year, but we don't want to be too far back this time. If we can get him into a rhythm near the pace, that would be ideal, as it's harder to come from behind these days.' With the ground in his favor and his liking for the fences, Pauling is hopeful for a top-10 finish, saying, 'He's not overly favored, but he has his conditions, and if he can hold his own in the first circuit and stay on in the second, we might see him with a chance two out.' The final field will be confirmed by 1pm on Friday, with Pied Piper as the first reserve.