I Am Maximus Set to Carry Top Weight in 2026 Grand National
For the second consecutive year, I Am Maximus has been assigned top weight for the Randox Grand National at Aintree, scheduled for April 11th. The 2024 winner finished second to Nick Rockett in his attempt to defend his title last season.
Aintree Contenders and Weights
Willie Mullins’s star will carry 11st 12lb around the challenging Aintree course. Current favorite Iroko, also owned by JP McManus, has been allotted 11st 1lb, a four-pound increase from his weight in the 2025 race where he finished fourth.1
Other notable contenders and their assigned weights include:
- Nick Rockett: 11st 11lb
- Grangeclare West: 11st 10lb
- Impaire Et Passe: 11st 5lb
- Spanish Harlem: 11st 3lb
- Lecky Watson: 11st 2lb
- Banbridge: 11st 11lb
- Haiti Couleurs: 11st 10lb
Mullins’ Strong Aintree Squad
Willie Mullins is aiming to continue his success at Aintree, fielding a larger squad than ever before. Last year, Nick Rockett, ridden by Patrick Mullins, secured victory, marking a third Grand National win for the trainer and a significant milestone for his son.2 Thirteen horses trained by Mullins are guaranteed a place in the final field of 34 runners.
Patrick Mullins expressed his desire to ride Nick Rockett again, stating, “I would love to ride Nick Rockett again.”2
Iroko’s Prospects
Despite preferring a slightly lower weight, the team behind Iroko remains optimistic. Josh Guerriero, co-trainer, commented, “We’d like a bit less, but we’ll take that, definitely!”3 They are hopeful for softer ground conditions, which suit the horse’s running style.
The 2026 Grand National promises to be a thrilling contest, with I Am Maximus leading a strong field of contenders.
1 BBC Sport
2 Irish Times
3 GrandNational.org.uk
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