I Am Maximus Aims for Historic Back-to-Back Grand National Victories

I Am Maximus, last year's Grand National champion, faces a challenging top-weight role as he gears up for the 2025 Aintree race. Can he defy history and secure a second victory?

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.

What to Read Next

Journalism's Thrilling Victory at the 150th Preakness Stakes
Horse Racing

Journalism's Thrilling Victory at the 150th Preakness Stakes

Journalism overcomes challenges to claim a dramatic win at the historic 150th Preakness Stakes, showcasing resilience and speed.

Minnie Hauk Triumphs at Epsom Oaks: A Stunning Victory for O'Brien's Stable
Horse Racing

Minnie Hauk Triumphs at Epsom Oaks: A Stunning Victory for O'Brien's Stable

Minnie Hauk secures a thrilling victory at the Epsom Oaks, leading an impressive one-two finish for trainer Aidan O'Brien.

Ruling Court Triumphs in the 2000 Guineas: A Spectacular Victory at Newmarket
Horse Racing

Ruling Court Triumphs in the 2000 Guineas: A Spectacular Victory at Newmarket

Ruling Court clinches victory at the 2000 Guineas, showcasing exceptional stamina and skill under jockey William Buick at Newmarket.

State Man Triumphs Over Constitution Hill in a Thrilling Champion Hurdle at Punchestown Festival
Horse Racing

State Man Triumphs Over Constitution Hill in a Thrilling Champion Hurdle at Punchestown Festival

Experience the excitement as State Man outperforms Constitution Hill at the Punchestown Festival, marking a significant victory in the Champion Hurdle.

John Gosden Aims for 2000 Guineas Victory with Field Of Gold: A Comprehensive Preview
Horse Racing

John Gosden Aims for 2000 Guineas Victory with Field Of Gold: A Comprehensive Preview

John Gosden eyes his first 2000 Guineas win with Field Of Gold, as top trainers and jockeys prepare for a thrilling race at Newmarket.

Galopin Des Champs Triumphs in Stunning Punchestown Gold Cup Victory
Horse Racing

Galopin Des Champs Triumphs in Stunning Punchestown Gold Cup Victory

Galopin Des Champs secures a commanding victory in the Punchestown Gold Cup, showcasing his dominance in horse racing under jockey Paul Townend.

Grand National 2024: A Spectacle of Sun, Style, and Steeplechase
Horse Racing

Grand National 2024: A Spectacle of Sun, Style, and Steeplechase

Experience the excitement of the Grand National 2024 at Aintree, where sun, style, and steeplechase create an unforgettable racing spectacle.

Sean Bowen: Champion Jockey Realizes Childhood Dream in Horse Racing
Horse Racing

Sean Bowen: Champion Jockey Realizes Childhood Dream in Horse Racing

Sean Bowen, the first Welsh Champion Jockey since 1958, shares his journey of 75,000 miles, 902 rides, and 180 wins to fulfill his childhood dream in horse racing.

Lambourn Triumphs in Chester Vase: A Strong Contender for the Epsom Derby
Horse Racing

Lambourn Triumphs in Chester Vase: A Strong Contender for the Epsom Derby

Lambourn secures a decisive win at the Chester Vase, positioning itself as a top contender for the upcoming Epsom Derby.

Willie Mullins Triumphs Over Dan Skelton to Secure UK Jumps Trainers' Title
Horse Racing

Willie Mullins Triumphs Over Dan Skelton to Secure UK Jumps Trainers' Title

Willie Mullins clinched the UK jumps trainers' title by outperforming Dan Skelton on the final day at Sandown, marking a historic victory for Irish trainers.

Heartbreak and Controversy: Jockey Micheal Nolan Speaks Out After Tragic Horse Death at Grand National
Horse Racing

Heartbreak and Controversy: Jockey Micheal Nolan Speaks Out After Tragic Horse Death at Grand National

Jockey Micheal Nolan shares his heartbreak after the tragic death of his horse Celebre D'Allen at the Grand National, amidst criticism and controversy.

Captain Cody Triumphs at Scottish Grand National Amidst Controversy
Horse Racing

Captain Cody Triumphs at Scottish Grand National Amidst Controversy

Captain Cody clinches victory at the Scottish Grand National, but the event is marred by the tragic loss of two horses.

Ultimate Guide to the 2025 Grand National: Runners, Riders, and Key Insights
Horse Racing

Ultimate Guide to the 2025 Grand National: Runners, Riders, and Key Insights

Get the full rundown on the 2025 Grand National at Aintree Racecourse, including detailed analysis of runners, riders, trainers, and betting odds.

Punchestown Festival 2025: Teahupoo and Majborough Shine in Thrilling Horse Racing Showdown
Horse Racing

Punchestown Festival 2025: Teahupoo and Majborough Shine in Thrilling Horse Racing Showdown

Teahupoo and Majborough delivered spectacular performances at the 2025 Punchestown Festival, securing victories in the Stayers' Hurdle and Novice Chase, respectively.

Frankie Dettori's Anticipation for Global Jockeys' League
Horse Racing

Frankie Dettori's Anticipation for Global Jockeys' League

Frankie Dettori is excited about the new global jockeys' league. Learn more.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.