I Am Maximus Eyes Grand National Double

I Am Maximus, the reigning Grand National champion, has been assigned the top weight for the 2025 edition of the prestigious race at Aintree on April 5. Trained by Willie Mullins and owned by JP McManus, the formidable horse clinched the 2024 title by a commanding margin of seven and a half lengths ahead of Delta Work, with Minella Indo and Galvin rounding out the top four.

A Historic Challenge

Carrying a weight of 11st 12lb, I Am Maximus faces a significant hurdle in his quest to become the first top-weight horse to win the Grand National since the legendary Red Rum in 1974. Mullins, who also celebrated a National victory in 2005 with Hedgehunter, acknowledged the difficulty ahead.

"It's top weight and it's tough, but we had an idea that it would be tough," Mullins stated. "Winning it last year for the second time was huge. I felt incredibly fortunate."

The Weight Challenge

Royale Pagaille follows closely behind at 11st 9lb, while L'Homme Presse, trained by Venetia Williams, sits at 11st 8lb alongside Mullins' Grangeclare West and Nick Rockett, as well as Henry de Bromhead's Envoi Allen.

Despite the weight burden, I Am Maximus remains a joint favorite with bookmakers, sharing top odds with Gavin Cromwell's Inothewayurthinkin (11st 5lb). Meanwhile, last year's runner-up Delta Work is set at 11st 2lb, Minella Indo at 11st 3lb, and Galvin at 10st 13lb.

The Field and Safety Measures

With a reduced field of 34 runners following last year's safety review, 87 horses have been entered for this year's race. Official handicapper Martin Greenwood predicts that horses ranked 59 or lower may struggle to secure a spot.

Notable Absences and Hopefuls

Mr Vango, winner of the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock, is unlikely to compete this year, sitting at 65th on the list with 10st 2lb. Trainer Sara Bradstock expressed disappointment, saying, "It will break my heart if soft ground conditions arise and we can't run, as he could win the National in such conditions."

Former football manager Harry Redknapp is also keeping his fingers crossed for his horse, Shakem Up'arry, ranked 58th with 10st 4lb.

Safety Innovations

In addition to the reduced field, last year's safety enhancements included a standing start, a slight reduction in fence height, and the introduction of foam and rubber toe boards. These changes led to zero fallers and 21 finishers—the highest number since 1992.

As the countdown to the 2025 Grand National begins, all eyes will be on I Am Maximus as he attempts to carve his name into the history books once more.