I Am Maximus Makes Grand National History with Second Aintree Victory
I Am Maximus has cemented his place among the legends of jump racing by winning the 2026 Randox Grand National at Aintree, becoming the first horse since the great Red Rum in 1977 to win the world's most famous steeplechase twice — and delivering trainer Willie Mullins a record-equalling third consecutive victory in the race.
Ridden by Paul Townend and owned by JP McManus, the Irish-trained champion carried top weight to a dramatic victory on Saturday afternoon, powering past the long-time leader Jordans in the closing stages to win in front of a roaring Aintree crowd. Iroko finished second and Jordans third, with Johnnywho in fourth — completing a remarkable 1-2-4 for owner McManus.
Background
I Am Maximus first won the Grand National in 2024, establishing himself as one of the most talented staying chasers in training. His connections had debated whether to target the Cheltenham Gold Cup this season, but owner JP McManus insisted on returning to Aintree, believing the horse was well-handicapped for the National. That decision proved inspired.
The 2026 Grand National featured a strong Irish contingent, with 23 of the 34 declared runners trained in Ireland. Willie Mullins, the dominant force in National Hunt racing on both sides of the Irish Sea, had a large team in the race, but it was his champion who once again rose to the occasion on the biggest stage.
Key Developments
The race was not without drama. I Am Maximus made a mistake a few fences from home and had significant ground to make up on Jordans as the field turned for home. But Townend produced a masterful ride, finding another gear to reel in the leader and win going away. The jockey said afterwards that I Am Maximus would gallop to the end of the world for him, and that winning the Grand National alongside the Gold Cup represents the pinnacle of the sport.
For Mullins, the victory secured his third consecutive Grand National triumph — a feat not achieved since the legendary Vincent O'Brien won three in a row in 1953, 1954, and 1955. It also equalled his record fourth win in the race overall. For McManus, it was even more historic: the Limerick businessman became the first owner in Grand National history to record four winners, with his horses filling three of the top four places.
A punter who placed a £100,000 bet on I Am Maximus walked away with nearly £1 million in winnings, adding to the day's extraordinary storylines.
Why It Matters
The Grand National is the most watched horse race in the world, attracting an audience of millions across the UK and Ireland. I Am Maximus's historic double cements Irish racing's dominance of the sport's most prestigious prizes and adds another chapter to the remarkable story of Willie Mullins, who has transformed National Hunt racing over the past decade.
What's Next
I Am Maximus will now be given a well-earned rest before connections decide on his future campaign. Whether he attempts a third Grand National in 2027 — which would put him in the company of Red Rum, the only horse to win the race three times — remains to be seen. Full race details and reaction are available from BBC Sport.
