The 2026 Grand National has become a part of history, and what an event it was. The Willie Mullins-trained and Paul Townend-ridden I Am Maximus delivered one of the greatest Grand National performances, becoming the first horse to reclaim the trophy since the legendary Red Rum. This remarkable achievement solidified Mullins' status as one of the greatest, as he guided I Am Maximus to a career-best effort in his third Grand National victory.
It's astonishing to think that after a novice chase season marked by blunders in 2022/23, this horse would go on to become a Grand National great. Mullins' ability to prepare I Am Maximus for three consecutive campaigns, peaking on the most important day, is a testament to his exceptional skill. Once the runners assembled at the starting line, the focus shifted to the partnership between I Am Maximus and Paul Townend.
Townend's understanding of the horse's unique jumping style allowed him to make the most of it, and his confidence in both himself and I Am Maximus was awe-inspiring. The horse's powerful finish, despite carrying top weight and a rating of 168, was breathtaking.
While some may argue that the modern Grand National is less demanding than its historical counterpart, it has become a more competitive and high-class event. The race is no longer solely about finding the best jumper or horse, but rather about identifying the best-handicapped horse on the day. I Am Maximus and Tiger Roll's repeated victories over massive, competitive fields are a remarkable achievement.
The 2024 and 2025 Grand Nationals were notable for their lack of incidents, but the 2026 renewal reminded us that the modern event still holds a great deal of uncertainty and potential for drama. Seven fallers and seven unseats created a dramatic spectacle, with many fancied horses exiting the race early. While efforts have been made to 'capture' loose horses, several evaded these measures, adding to the sense of trepidation throughout the race.
Older viewers may still hold strong opinions about the modern Grand National, but younger viewers who have only experienced the new version are unlikely to have felt short-changed by the excitement of the event. The old Grand National is truly a thing of the past, and it's time to stop romanticizing it.
Instead, let's appreciate the high-profile, high-risk, and exhilarating National Hunt race that remains one of the greatest sporting spectacles in the world.