I Am Maximus Reclaims Grand National Title

In a historic moment, I Am Maximus became the first horse to reclaim the Grand National title since the legendary Red Rum, winning the 2026 Randox Grand National. The race was filled with drama from the start, with Grangeclare West and Panic Attack falling early on. I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend, tracked the inside path and stormed home to win after the final jump, becoming the heavily-backed 9-2 favorite. This marked a record fourth win in the race for owner JP McManus, who also had Iroko finish second, a first for one owner to have the first two places. Trainer Mullins, who joins Red Rum's trainer Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell as a four-time National-winning handler, praised the horse and the strategic decision to keep him in Aintree. Mullins noted that I Am Maximus is a superb horse who got a fantastic ride and executed the plan perfectly, despite facing trouble from his stablemates. The win was a testament to the horse's exceptional ability and the team's strategic planning. I Am Maximus's victory has sparked discussions about the changing nature of the modern-day National, with some suggesting that it may be less challenging to win off top-weight. The horse's future is already being anticipated, with hopes that he could further emulate Red Rum's historic achievements. Townend described I Am Maximus as 'tough' and willing to 'gallop to the end of the world,' highlighting the horse's remarkable endurance and determination. In another notable performance, Home By The Lee followed up his Stayers' Hurdle success at the Cheltenham Festival with a dominant display in the Jet2 Liverpool Hurdle, completing a double last achieved by Sire du Berlais in 2023.