Connections of Aintree Grand National winner I Am Maximus say that they are to enjoy celebrating this year’s success before even thinking about going for a historic third victory. The Wille Mullins-trained 10-year-old became only the second horse after Red Rum to regain the National crown when winning on April 11. He was second in between his victories in 2024 and 2026 and now has the chance to pull level with Aintree legend Red Rum if he can record a third triumph in the world’s greatest steeplechase.
Frank Berry, the racing manager for winning owner J.P. McManus, said: ‘‘It was a brilliant performance and it was a great ride from Paul. Willie had him in great form and it was an unbelievable day. Let's celebrate this one first before thinking about next year. We'll see what happens. It's a long way away, he will a year older but I’m sure all being well you would love to see him back there again and have a go at it.”
Meanwhile Cheltenham absentee Marine Nationale is set to join the likes of Gaelic Warrior, Lossiemouth and Il Etait Temps as one of the stars of the Punchestown Festival later this month. Barry Connell’s stable star was unable to defend his Prestbury Park crown after suffering a setback, but he is firmly on course to return to action for the big National Hunt Festival at the Kildare track on April 28.
