I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title

In a dramatic 2026 Randox Grand National, I Am Maximus etched his name in the history books by becoming the first horse to regain the title since the legendary Red Rum. The race was marred by early drama, including the fall of last year's third-place finisher Grangeclare West and Panic Attack. However, I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend, tracked the inside path to perfection and stormed home to win the race for a second time. This victory marked a record fourth win in the Grand National for owner JP McManus, who also had his horse Iroko finish second. Trainer Willie Mullins, who joins an elite group of four-time National-winning handlers, praised I Am Maximus, calling him a 'superb horse' who got a 'fantastic ride'. Mullins expressed his delight at the win, saying it's the race everyone aspires to win and be a part of. Jockey Paul Townend described I Am Maximus as 'tough' and said the cheekpieces helped in the middle part of the race. Meanwhile, Home By The Lee followed up his Stayers' Hurdle success with a dominant display in the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, giving Joseph O'Brien a memorable win.