I Am Maximus wins Grand National for trainer Mullins
I Am Maximus Claims Grand National Victory for Trainer Willie Mullins
Paul Townend secured his second Grand National triumph aboard I Am Maximus, marking the first time a horse has reclaimed the title since Red Rum’s 1977 win. The 2024 champion, who narrowly missed out last year, entered the race as the 9-2 favorite and delivered a decisive performance, outpacing Iroko, Jordans, and Johnnywho. This victory extended trainer Willie Mullins’ streak of Grand National wins to three consecutive years, a feat not seen since Vincent O’Brien’s three-year run from 1953 to 1955.
A Historic Record for Owner JP McManus
With this win, JP McManus now holds the record for the most Grand National victories in history, tallying four successes. His stable included the 2024 winner, Don’t Push It (2010), Minella Times (2021), and I Am Maximus. Only Jordans, the third favorite, was not in his ownership, as three of the top four finishers were from McManus’ stable. The 11st 12lbs top weight also became the first to win the race since Red Rum carried 12 stone to victory in 1974.
Racing Drama and Key Moments
The race unfolded with high tension, as last year’s jockey on Nick Rockett, Patrick Mullins, was unseated from Grangeclare West at the second fence. The second favorite, Panic Attack, fell at the third obstacle, while Ben Jones made a late surge on Jordans, a 28-1 outsider, around the final bend. Townend, however, maintained composure, following the lead pack before launching a powerful finish to clinch the title. Sixteen of the 34 starters finished, with Quai de Bourbon and Mr Vango requiring ambulance care after falls. Jockey Robbie Dunne was taken to hospital following a fall on Stellar Story.
Quotes from the Winner
“He’s a true powerhouse, with an unyielding spirit. While Grangeclare West and Nick Rockett showed promise, this horse was always eager to race,” Townend said. He added, “He’s got an incredible engine. He’ll run until the finish line, no matter the challenge. I feel incredibly lucky to ride him. Both Grand Nationals and Gold Cups are the ultimate goals in racing, and I’ve achieved both.”
Other Notable Performances
Trainer Dan Skelton recorded four wins across seven races at Aintree, including victories for Mirabad, Bossman Jack, Mr Hope Street, and Forthfactor. In the second race, Get On George was pulled up and dismounted by Jack Tudor, leading to its humane euthanasia. This marked the second fatality at the meeting, following Gold Dancer’s earlier demise. Mullins’ success underscores his strategic prowess, as he trained the top three finishers from the previous year, yet opted to run I Am Maximus at Aintree with McManus’ backing.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The 2026 Grand National will see I Am Maximus as the two-time winner, with reactions praising the horse’s dominance. Mullins reflected on the decision to run the superstar in the National, stating, “JP’s call was smart. I would have taken him to the Gold Cup, but his owner wanted the challenge at Aintree. This horse just does what he needs to do—run, jump, and win.”