I Am Maximus has etched his name into Aintree history with a second Grand National victory, putting him on course to challenge the legendary Red Rum's record. The 11-year-old, trained by Willie Mullins and owned by JP McManus, triumphed on Saturday, becoming the first horse since Red Rum in 1974 to win the race in nonconsecutive years. He joins Tiger Roll as one of only three dual winners since the 1930s.
Mullins revealed the horse's fiery temperament, saying 'he’d eat you without salt,' after I Am Maximus disgraced himself at a victory parade two years ago. Despite his antics, the gelding is a marketing dream, with a gladiatorial name and consistent performances. He has already shouldered top weight to victory and is likely to return for a fourth crack at the National in 2027.
JP McManus, celebrating a record fourth Grand National win, will have no hesitation in asking I Am Maximus to attempt a third victory. The horse was the subject of a £100,000 bet at 8-1 before Saturday's race and started as the 9-2 favourite. If he lines up next year, he is expected to be among the shortest-priced favourites in the race's history.
Red Rum, buried by the winning post, still holds the superior record of 1-1-2-2-1, but I Am Maximus is closing in. His potential third win would spark debates over the Aintree greatest of all time. For now, racing has a year to build anticipation for his return, with the chance to exploit his celebrity status to the fullest.
