I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title

In a historic moment at the 2026 Randox Grand National, I Am Maximus became the first horse to reclaim the title since the iconic Red Rum. The race was filled with early drama, including the separation of Grangeclare West from Patrick Mullins at the first hurdle and the fall of Panic Attack at the third. I Am Maximus, skillfully guided by Paul Townend, followed his familiar inside path. As the race unfolded, Ben Jones made a bold move with The Jukebox Man, but the heavily favored 9-2 I Am Maximus surged forward after the final jump to secure his second Grand National win, having also finished second the previous year. This victory marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, with his Iroko finishing second - a first for one owner to have the top two spots. Jordans came in third, followed by Johnnywho in fourth. Trainer Mullins, who joins the ranks of four-time National-winning handlers alongside Red Rum's trainer Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell, commented on the strategic decision to keep I Am Maximus in the race, stating it was a good call by JP McManus to stay in Aintree. Mullins praised I Am Maximus as a superb horse who received a fantastic ride from Paul Townend, noting the horse's ability to navigate the challenging course with ease. The victory of I Am Maximus underlines the evolving nature of the modern-day Grand National, with Mullins suggesting that the traditional perceptions of the race may be changing. In other racing news, Oxagon secured a win in the Craven Stakes for the in-form Gosden team, while Azleet entered the 1000 Guineas contention with a 50-1 win in the Nell Gwyn Stakes. Hollie Doyle reflected on her hopes for Derby contender Wareeth in the Feilden Stakes at Newmarket, and Evan Williams faced a three-year jail sentence for causing grievous bodily harm. Looking ahead, Grand National winner I Am Maximus may have the potential to further emulate Red Rum's historic feats, with Mullins expressing hope for the horse's return next year. Jockey Paul Townend praised I Am Maximus as a tough competitor, attributing the win to the horse's endurance and the strategic use of cheekpieces. In the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, Home By The Lee dominated with a seven-length success, following up on his Stayers' Hurdle win at the Cheltenham Festival. Joseph O'Brien's 11-year-old veteran was given an enterprising ride by J J Slevin, outstaying the competition to achieve a double last seen by Sire du Berlais in 2023. O'Brien reflected on Home By The Lee's star status over the years, acknowledging the unexpected nature of his recent wins and attributing the success to the team's learning and adaptation.