Thu. Apr 16th, 2026

Where Limerick is Heard

Sport

Glory for Limerick’s JP McManus as I Am Maximus wins Grand National

ByMary Ellen Moloney

11 April 2026 , , ,
JP McManus (right) became the winning-most owner of the Aintree Randox Grand National with I Am Maximus. Photo: Getty Images.

Limerick man JP McManus became the winning-most owner of the Aintree Randox Grand National as I Am Maximus stormed to victory in the 2026 running of the race. 

A field of 34 went to post, and the race was not without its drama. Patrick Mullins, who won last year’s edition of the infamous race, had a much different race this year when he was unseated from his partner Grangeclare West at the first fence. Out of the field that started, only 16 horses finished.  

I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend and trained by Willie Mullins, led home the field with a 1-2 for his owner McManus. The winning horse booked a place in the Grand National hall of fame, becoming the first horse since the legendary Red Rum to regain the title, having won in 2024 and come in second place last year.  

I Am Maximus travelled well at the beginning of the race but was shuffled back in the field. A mistake at the water jump, the 16th of the circuit caused the horse to lose some momentum and end up mid field. Another mistake at the 22nd fence sent I Am Maximus further into mid division.

At fence 27 of 30, Jordans took the lead as eventual winner I Am Maximus began to make steady ground. A strong finish from I Am Maximus sent him to the winning post for his second Grand National victory.