I Am Maximus Regains Grand National Title in Historic Win

I Am Maximus etched his name in the history books by becoming the first horse to reclaim the Grand National title since the iconic Red Rum, with a thrilling victory in the 2026 Randox Grand National. The race was marked by early drama, including the fall of last year's third-place finisher Grangeclare West and Panic Attack, but I Am Maximus remained focused, tracking the inside path under the skilled hands of Paul Townend. As the competition unfolded, a bold challenge from The Jukebox Man was mounted by Ben Jones, but the heavily favored 9-2 favorite, I Am Maximus, surged forward after the final jump to secure his second Grand National win, having also finished second the previous year. This achievement marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, who also celebrated Iroko's second-place finish, a first for one owner to have the top two spots. Jordans took third place, followed by Johnnywho in fourth. Trainer Willie Mullins, now a four-time National-winning handler alongside Red Rum's trainer Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell, praised the strategic decision to keep I Am Maximus in Aintree, citing his favorable handicap. Mullins described I Am Maximus as a 'superb horse' who received a 'fantastic ride' from Townend, noting the horse's ability to navigate challenges from his stablemates. The victory was met with enthusiasm, with Mullins reflecting on the changing nature of the modern-day National and the aspiration to win this prestigious race. I Am Maximus's jockey, Paul Townend, praised the horse's toughness and endurance, attributing the win to the strategic use of cheekpieces during the race. The Grand National was complemented by another notable victory, as Home By The Lee dominated the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, following up his Stayers' Hurdle success at the Cheltenham Festival with a commanding performance under J J Slevin. Trainer Joseph O'Brien attributed the win to the horse's experience and the team's learning curve, having initially been surprised by Home By The Lee's potential at the start of the year. The race saw the veteran horse outstay his competitors, securing a seven-length victory. O'Brien highlighted the team's tactical approach, which involved injecting pace down the back straight, a strategy that paid off as Home By The Lee outstayed all his rivals.