I Am Maximus has won the Grand National 2026, held at Aintree, becoming the first horse since Red Rum to regain his title. The race took place on a Saturday, with I Am Maximus finishing ahead of Iroko, who took second place, and Jordans, who finished third.
This victory is significant not only for the horse but also for trainer Willie Mullins, who has now become the first trainer to win three successive Grand Nationals since Vincent O’Brien. Owner JP McManus has also made history, becoming the most successful owner in Grand National history with a total of four wins.
I Am Maximus, a 10-year-old bay gelding, was the race favorite with odds of 9/2. He won by a margin of 2.5 lengths, showcasing his strength and endurance throughout the race. In total, 34 runners participated, with 16 completing the course.
Last year, I Am Maximus finished second in the Grand National, making this win a remarkable comeback. Mullins commented on the decision to keep the horse at Aintree, stating, “It was a good call from JP, 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.”
Jockey Paul Townend praised I Am Maximus, saying, “He’s tough, isn’t he? He’ll gallop to the end of the world for you.” This sentiment reflects the horse’s determination and capability on the track.
Looking ahead, Mullins expressed hope for I Am Maximus’s future in the Grand National, saying, “Hopefully he’ll be here next year, JP is very keen on the National for I Am Maximus, he says he loves the place and jumps the fences so well.”
The 2026 Grand National results have solidified I Am Maximus’s status in horse racing, with one observer noting, “I Am Maximus is now Aintree royalty.” This statement encapsulates the horse’s remarkable achievement and the legacy he continues to build.
