I Am Maximus wins Grand National for second time at Aintree

I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend, wins the 2026 Grand National at Aintree, becoming the first horse since Red Rum to win the race in non-consecutive years. The victory marks the first top weight win since Red Rum in 1974.

By Belfast Herald Sport1 min read

Email Report an error

Image not availableNot all original photographs have been retained in the digital archive.

I Am Maximus won the 2026 Grand National at Aintree, becoming the first horse since Red Rum to win the race in non-consecutive years. The horse carried a top weight of 11st 12lbs, making it the first such winner since Red Rum in 1974.

Paul Townend rode I Am Maximus to victory, securing his second Grand National win. The jockey described the horse as possessing a strong stamina and exceptional ability to sustain pace.

Trainer Willie Mullins achieved a third consecutive Grand National win, making him the first trainer since Vincent O'Brien to do so. JP McManus became the leading owner in Grand National history with four wins.