I Am Maximus Seeks Red Rum's Legacy in Grand National Showdown
The stage is set for a historic Grand National as I Am Maximus heads the declarations, aiming to emulate the legendary Red Rum by regaining the title after a loss. No horse has matched this feat since Ginger McCain's Aintree icon achieved it in the 1970s, making Saturday's race a potential landmark moment in steeplechasing history.
Chasing History at Aintree
Red Rum's storied career included victories in 1973 and 1974, followed by second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976, before a triumphant third win in 1977 that captivated the racing world. Now, Willie Mullins-trained I Am Maximus, the 2024 champion, looks to replicate this comeback. After winning two years ago under jockey Paul Townend, he was narrowly defeated by stablemate Nick Rockett in 2025, missing out on becoming the first dual winner since Tiger Roll.
I Am Maximus will sport cheekpieces for only the second time in his career, the first instance dating back to December 2022, adding an intriguing tactical element to his bid. The maximum field of 34 declared runners ensures a fiercely competitive race, with no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, though Spillane's Tower holds a dual entry for Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase.
Strong Contenders and Notable Runners
Mullins fields a powerful team beyond I Am Maximus, including Grangeclare West, who placed third last year, and Spanish Harlem, owned by Dr Peter Fitzgerald, founder of sponsors Randox. Other entries from his stable are Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon.
Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs aims for a unique treble, as no horse has ever won the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Ireland's traditionally strong hand is further bolstered by Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother.
Trainers Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero present two major chances with Iroko, last year's fourth-place finisher, and stablemate Jagwar. Both are owned by JP McManus, who also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho in his UK-trained squad.
Dark Horses and Fairytale Stories
Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th in 2025, has reignited National dreams after a Becher Chase victory over the Aintree fences this season. Purchased for just £100, he will be ridden by owner's son Beau Morgan, aged 21, adding a sentimental narrative to the race.
Pauling commented, "He acts on the track, having won the Becher, and if we can get him into a rhythm closer to the pace, that would be ideal. He's very much a fairytale National story—cost next to nothing and ridden by the owner's son. We'll see if we have a fairytale result." The trainer emphasized that a top-10 finish would be thrilling, with anything beyond as a bonus.
Reserves and Final Preparations
Should Spillane's Tower run on Thursday, Pied Piper, the first reserve, would join as the 34th runner for Gordon Elliott. The deadline for reserves to enter the final field is 1pm on Friday, ensuring all possibilities are covered. The full list of runners and riders showcases a diverse array of talent, from seasoned champions to promising newcomers.
As anticipation builds, the 2026 Grand National promises not only high-stakes competition but also the potential for historic achievements, with I Am Maximus at the forefront of a quest to match Red Rum's enduring legacy.
