I Am Maximus emerged victorious in the 2026 Grand National, clocking a time of 9 minutes and 9.68 seconds. This win secures the second consecutive title for the horse owned by JP McManus, placing alongside Tiger Roll as a two-time champion at this esteemed racing event.
JP McManus now holds the record for the most wins by an owner in the history of the Grand National, with four victories. Additionally, this victory marks the second year in a row that trainer Willie Mullins has led a horse to triumph at the National, following his success with Nick Rockett last year.
Following the race, jockey Paul Townend, who has clinched both the Gold Cup and Grand National titles this season, praised I Am Maximus for his resilience and determination. Townend commended the horse’s strength and endurance, emphasizing his exceptional racing abilities.
Willie Mullins also shared his thoughts on I Am Maximus, highlighting the excellent performance of the horse and the strategic decision to focus on the Aintree race rather than pursuing the Gold Cup route. Mullins acknowledged the evolving nature of the Grand National and expressed his team’s ambition to excel in this prestigious event.
The Grand National results are as follows:
1st: I Am Maximus
2nd: Iroko
3rd: Jordans
4th: Jonnywho
5th: High Class Hero
6th: Favori De Champdou
7th: Final Orders
8th: Champ Kiely
9th: Three Card Brag
10th: Monty’s Star
11th: Answer To Kayf
12th: Gorgeous Tom
13th: Imperial Saint
14th: Haiti Couleurs
15th: Twig
16th: Firefox
Several riders unseated during the race, including Bainbridge, Grangeclare West, Oscars Brother, Beauport, Captain Cody, Jagwar, and Perceval Legallois. Other horses fell, such as Gerri Colombe, Mr Vango, Stellar Story, Quai De Bourbon, Marble Sands, Panic Attack, and Top Of The Bill. Some horses were pulled up, including Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, The Real Whacker, and Amirite. Non-runners for the event were Nick Rockett, Spillane’s Tower, and Pied Piper.
