I Am Maximus Seeks Historic Top-Weight Victory in 2026 Grand National
I Am Maximus, the triumphant winner of the 2024 Grand National, is poised to make racing history by attempting to become the first top-weight horse to claim victory in the world's most famous steeplechase since the legendary Red Rum achieved the feat back in 1974. This bold bid comes as the 2026 Grand National field is being hailed for its exceptional depth and quality, marking a significant evolution in the race's competitive landscape.
Unprecedented Depth in the 2026 Field
The recent unveiling of the weights for the 2026 Grand National at Aintree has underscored a dramatic transformation in the race's composition. Martin Greenwood, the official handicapper responsible for setting the weights, emphasized that this year's race stands out remarkably in terms of quality. The evidence is compelling: the entire top dozen horses in the handicap are all rated 160 or above, a clear indicator of the elevated standards.
To appreciate the scale of change, consider the 2011 Grand National. In that year, the bottom weights raced off a rating of 138, and the eventual top weight, Don't Push It, carried a mark of 160. Fast forward to 2026, and the 34th horse on the list—the last guaranteed a run—is Jagwar, rated at 152. Even a rating of 144 might not secure a spot in the final field of 34, down from the traditional 40 runners, reflecting a more selective and competitive entry process.
"Although entries are slightly down overall to 78 from 90 in 2025, it's at the bottom end where trainers are now realizing there is no point in entering as they have no chance of getting in," Greenwood explained. This shift highlights how the Grand National has increasingly become a domain for elite contenders, with the depth of quality rising consistently from year to year.
The Rise of Elite Runners Under Heavy Burdens
The increasing quality of the field is vividly reflected in recent results, where top horses have successfully carried substantial weights to victory. Last year, Nick Rockett triumphed under 11st 8lb, leading a 1-2-3 finish for trainer Willie Mullins. I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner, finished second under 11st 12lb, while Grangeclare West crossed the line third with 11st 8lb. These performances demonstrate that the best horses are now more capable than ever of shrugging off burdens of 11st or more to compete at the highest level.
Despite some nostalgia for "the good old days," where the race featured more runners and arguably tougher fences, the modern Grand National offers its own unique excitement. Critics may argue that the course has been softened and the outcomes have become predictable, but the form book tells a different story. Winners at odds of 50-1 and 33-1 have emerged in the last four years alone, proving that surprises still abound.
Moreover, the easier fences have led to more horses remaining in contention deep into the race, with as many as two dozen still in the hunt as they approach the final stretch. For the vast once-a-year television audience, many of whom are engaging with horse racing for the first time, this sustained competitiveness adds immense excitement and spectacle to the event.
Dominance of Irish Stables and Room for Underdogs
The 2026 entries reveal a strong dominance by major Irish stables, mirroring trends seen at other premier events like the Cheltenham Festival. Willie Mullins alone has 10 of the top 34 horses in the weights, underscoring his powerful presence in the race. However, there remains ample opportunity for smaller yards to make their mark, preserving the Grand National's tradition of welcoming ambitious underdogs.
Mr Vango, a popular chaser from Sara Bradstock's stable, is guaranteed a run after narrowly missing out last year. "We've got to get enough rain," Bradstock noted, "but otherwise we're obviously very much looking forward to what he's good at, which is jumping and stamina. He's a great big horse to carry weight, so we're delighted to get a chance if the ground comes."
Another intriguing contender is Oscars Brother, who needs one more run to qualify. If successful, he could make 27-year-old Connor King, who operates a small stable in County Kildare with just two horses, the youngest winning trainer in Grand National history. Oscars Brother has already attracted betting interest, shortening to around 33-1 from an initial 40-1.
Market Leaders and Contenders to Watch
In the early betting markets, Iroko stands as the clear favorite at a top price of 7-1, following a fourth-place finish as the favorite last year. I Am Maximus is offered at 12-1 in his quest to break the top-weight jinx, while Haiti Couleurs, the Welsh Grand National winner, is next at 16-1. Nick Rockett, last year's winner, is available at 25-1 but faces a time crunch to secure a qualifying run.
Grangeclare West is also priced at 25-1 and is on course to return to Aintree. Another Mullins-trained horse, Spanish Harlem, presents an interesting prospect at around 40-1. Owned by Peter FitzGerald, founder of race sponsor Randox, this eight-year-old looked poised to win the Thyestes Chase in January before unseating his rider at the final fence.
Patrick Mullins, last year's winning jockey and assistant to his father, expressed optimism about Spanish Harlem's chances. "The profile is right in my book, and I don't see why he won't take to the fences," he said. "He's got plenty of experience and jumps well. I know he can throw in the odd clanger, but sometimes those horses can just have a little bit more respect for a new type of fence."
As the 2026 Grand National approaches, the stage is set for a thrilling contest that blends historic ambitions with modern competitive rigor. I Am Maximus's attempt to emulate Red Rum adds a layer of drama, while the overall quality of the field promises a race that will captivate both seasoned racing enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
