I Am Maximus wins second Grand National title
I Am Maximus has won the Grand National for the second time, securing the £500,000 prize money, marking a historic achievement as he becomes the first horse to regain the crown since Red Rum in 1976, reports BritPanorama.
The 10-year-old horse was a pre-race favourite, having narrowly lost to competitor Nick Rockett in 2025, who was withdrawn from this year’s race due to a cough. A total of 34 runners competed for the 2026 Randox Grand National title at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, the event that serves as the apex of a three-day festival, renowned as the most famous steeplechase horse race in the world.
Irish jockey Paul Townend added a significant landmark to his career, achieving a historic double following his record-breaking fifth Cheltenham Gold Cup win in March. Trainer Willie Mullins, noted for his expertise, has now trained the last three Grand National winners and expressed his elation at this latest victory, marking his fourth as a trainer.
Mullins stated, “This horse is just a superstar. Nothing fazes him and does what he has to do – runs, jumps and wins Nationals. Paul executed it so well. This is the race we all aspire to when we get into racing. Just to have a runner is a tremendous sensation.” In terms of placement, Iroko finished in second, with Jordan taking third and Johnnywho coming in fourth. Jockey Robbie Dunne was taken to the hospital following the race but is reported to be conscious and talking.
This year’s Grand National continues the tradition of high-stakes competition amid an atmosphere of celebration, as the horse racing community reflects on the remarkable feats accomplished on the famed turf of Aintree. The thrill of victory remains palpable, a reminder that in racing, every jump counts. Some victories are tangible, while others linger in the hearts of spectators, illustrating the unique bond between horses and their riders amid the excitement of the chase.
