I Am Maximus Joins Racing Legends with Historic Grand National Double
In a stunning display of endurance and skill, I Am Maximus has etched his name into the annals of horse racing history by winning the 2026 Grand National at Aintree for the second time. This remarkable achievement makes him the first horse since the legendary Red Rum in the 1970s to regain the coveted crown, a feat that underscores his status among the sport's greats.
A Dramatic and Incident-Packed Race
The race was filled with early drama, setting the stage for an unforgettable showdown. Last year's third-place finisher, Grangeclare West, parted ways with jockey Patrick Mullins at the very first fence, while Panic Attack fell at the third, adding to the tension. Amidst the chaos, I Am Maximus, carrying the top weight and backed into favouritism late in the day, expertly tracked the inside path under the guidance of jockey Paul Townend.
As the competition intensified, Ben Jones made a bold move aboard Jordans, attempting to build on his King George victory with The Jukebox Man. However, a strong challenge from the JP McManus-owned contingent loomed large. In the end, it was the heavily-backed 9-2 market leader, I Am Maximus, who stormed home best from the elbow, securing his second Grand National win after a memorable victory in 2024 and a second-place finish last year.
Record-Breaking Performances and Celebrations
The victory marked a record fourth Grand National win for owner JP McManus, who also celebrated another historic first: having the first two horses home, with Iroko finishing second. Jordans took third place, followed by Johnnywho in fourth. This dual success highlights McManus's dominance in the sport and adds a new chapter to his illustrious career.
Jockey Paul Townend, who completed a prestigious Gold Cup and Grand National double this season, praised his mount's resilience. "He's tough, isn't he?" Townend remarked. "He still didn't travel with the enthusiasm of the first year, but the cheekpieces helped in the middle of the race." He added, "He's a really, really good horse, that's why. He wasn't telling me not to ride him. He's so good. He's got such an engine and will gallop to the end of the world for you."
Trainer Willie Mullins Reflects on a Milestone Victory
Trainer Willie Mullins, who now joins Red Rum's trainer Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell as a four-time National-winning handler, shared his thoughts on the strategic decision that led to this triumph. "It was a good call from JP," Mullins said. "I'd been going down the Gold Cup route with him, but he said to stay in Aintree with him as he felt he was well handicapped. Paul just executed it so well."
Mullins also noted the evolving nature of the race, stating, "It is [hard to win off top-weight], but maybe the modern-day National is changing and we're looking at it a bit differently." He expressed the deep significance of the Grand National, saying, "It's the race we aspire [to win]. It's the race you want to win and be a part of – just to have a runner is a tremendous sensation. He is just a superstar – nothing fazes him. He comes out, does what he has to do and wins Nationals."
Full Race Results and Legacy
The full results of the 2026 Grand National are as follows: 1. I Am Maximus (Paul Townend) at 9-2 Fav, 2. Iroko (Jonjo O'Neill Jr.) at 18-1, 3. Jordans (Ben Jones) at 28-1, and 4. Johnnywho (R P McLernon) at 12-1. This victory not only cements I Am Maximus's legacy but also revitalizes the spirit of Aintree, reminding fans of the timeless appeal of one of horse racing's most challenging and celebrated events.
