I Am Maximus Triumphs in 2026 Grand National for Trainer Willie Mullins

I Am Maximus achieved a remarkable milestone by securing a second Grand National victory at Aintree in 2026. This win also marked trainer Willie Mullins’ third consecutive triumph, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

I Am Maximus and Willie Mullins: A Historic Win

Entering the race as the 9-2 favorite, I Am Maximus held strong against competitors like Iroko, Jordans, and Johnnywho. With this victory, Mullins became the first trainer since Vincent O’Brien, who won from 1953 to 1955, to secure three Grand National wins in a row.

• Willie Mullins has now won the Grand National four times.
• JP McManus, the owner of I Am Maximus, leads with four wins in the event’s history.
• I Am Maximus is the first horse to win the Grand National in non-consecutive years since Red Rum.

JP McManus and Previous Wins

JP McManus is celebrated for his ownership of several Grand National winners, including:

• Don’t Push It (2010)
• Minella Times (2021)
• I Am Maximus (2024 and 2026)

This latest victory makes him the leading owner in the history of the Grand National.

Historic Achievements for I Am Maximus

I Am Maximus also made history by becoming the first top weight to win the Grand National since Red Rum. In 1974, Red Rum carried 12 stone to victory. I Am Maximus raced with a weight of 11st 12lbs.

Reactions from Jockey Paul Townend

Jockey Paul Townend expressed his honor at riding I Am Maximus, calling the horse “tough” and “really, really good.” He acknowledged the strong competition in the race but emphasized I Am Maximus’ exceptional ability and stamina.

Dramatic Race Events

The race started with unexpected drama. Last year’s champion jockey, Patrick Mullins, was unseated on Grangeclare West at the second fence. The second favorite, Panic Attack, fell at the third fence, further shaking up the competition.

Ben Jones, riding Jordans, made a notable move around the final bend. However, Townend maintained a strategic position with I Am Maximus, making a decisive sprint to the front as the race unfolded. In total, 16 out of 34 horses completed the race, with some facing unfortunate incidents.

Incidents During the Race

• Quai de Bourbon was taken to an ambulance after a fall.
• Jockey Robbie Dunne was hospitalized for assessment following a fall on Stellar Story.

Overall, I Am Maximus’ triumph in the 2026 Grand National continues to elevate the horse racing legacy of both trainer Willie Mullins and owner JP McManus.