Can I Am Maximus Make Grand National History at Aintree in 2027?

Fifty years after Red Rum became the first horse to win three Grand Nationals, another remarkable chapter in Aintree’s history could be written in 2027.

Willie Mullins’ I Am Maximus is preparing for another appearance in the world’s most famous steeplechase, with the two-time winner looking to become only the second horse to claim three victories in the Grand National.

Having won the race in 2024, finished runner-up in 2025 and regained his crown in spectacular fashion earlier this year, the JP McManus-owned star has established himself as one of the greatest Grand National performers of the modern era.

With Mullins recently outlining his plans for the season ahead, attention is already turning towards Saturday 10th April 2027, when I Am Maximus could make history at Aintree Racecourse.

I Am Maximus Looking to Emulate Red Rum’s Historic Grand National Record

Few horses have enjoyed the same level of success at Aintree as I Am Maximus, whose three Grand National appearances have produced two victories and a second-place finish.

His first triumph came in 2024, when Paul Townend guided him to an impressive seven-length victory over Delta Work, handing Mullins his second Grand National success and his first since Hedgehunter in 2005.

Twelve months later, I Am Maximus returned to defend his title, producing another excellent performance under top weight but ultimately finishing second behind stablemate Nick Rockett.

However, the 2026 renewal saw him return to winning ways with arguably his finest Grand National performance yet.

Sent off as the 9/2 favourite, I Am Maximus carried 11st 12lb to victory, becoming the first horse since Red Rum in 1977 to regain the Grand National crown. He finished ahead of Iroko, Jordans and Johnnywho, securing a fourth Grand National success for Mullins.

The achievement also made him the first multiple winner of the race since Tiger Roll completed consecutive victories in 2018 and 2019.

Now, the prospect of a third Grand National victory has inevitably drawn comparisons with Red Rum, who famously won the race in 1973, 1974 and 1977 under trainer Ginger McCain.

With 2027 marking the 50th anniversary of Red Rum’s final triumph, the possibility of I Am Maximus matching that record adds considerable significance to next April’s race.

Willie Mullins Reveals Plans for I Am Maximus Ahead of Grand National 2027

Mullins has provided an encouraging update on I Am Maximus ahead of the new National Hunt season, revealing that the horse has returned from his summer break in excellent condition.

Speaking in late October, the Irish trainer confirmed that he intends to follow a familiar preparation towards Aintree, having been pleased with how the horse has returned to training.

His proposed campaign begins with the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase on 22nd November, followed by the Savills Chase at Leopardstown on 28th December.

The Irish Gold Cup at the Dublin Racing Festival on 30th January is then expected to provide his final competitive appearance before the Grand National.

Mullins believes I Am Maximus’s intelligence, jumping ability and familiarity with Aintree’s famous fences have been crucial to his success, while his partnership with Paul Townend has proved particularly effective.

The trainer has also spoken enthusiastically about the prospect of joining Ginger McCain as the trainer of a three-time Grand National winner, admitting he would like nothing better than to achieve the feat.

If I Am Maximus succeeds, Mullins would also move clear as the most successful trainer in Grand National history with five victories, having already won the famous race in each of the last three years.

Can I Am Maximus Really Win a Third Grand National?

There is certainly plenty of evidence to suggest that I Am Maximus could challenge for another victory at Aintree.

His record around the famous Grand National course is exceptional, having finished no worse than second in three appearances, while his stamina has repeatedly proved decisive over the marathon distance.

His 2026 victory was particularly impressive given the weight he was carrying. Winning under 11st 12lb demonstrated his ability to overcome a demanding handicap, although his official weight for the 2027 renewal has yet to be confirmed.

At 11 years old by the time next April arrives, age will be another factor to consider. The Grand National places extraordinary demands on horses, and returning to compete at the highest level for a fourth consecutive year will represent another considerable challenge.

There is also the quality of opposition to consider, with the Grand National attracting some of the most accomplished staying chasers from Britain and Ireland.

Nevertheless, I Am Maximus possesses something that many potential challengers cannot match: an outstanding record over Aintree’s unique fences.

If Mullins can bring him back in similar condition to his previous three appearances, there is every reason to believe that the defending champion could play a significant role in the 2027 race.

Grand National 2027 Could Be One of Aintree’s Most Historic Renewals

The 2027 Randox Grand National Festival takes place from Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th April, with the Grand National itself scheduled for 4:00pm on the final afternoon.

The meeting will feature three days of outstanding National Hunt racing, beginning with Opening Day on Thursday, followed by the traditional Ladies Day on Friday before the Grand National takes centre stage on Saturday.

However, it is the potential achievement of I Am Maximus that could make the 2027 renewal particularly memorable.

Red Rum’s third victory in 1977 remains one of the most celebrated moments in British sporting history. Half a century later, racing supporters could witness another horse join him in an extraordinarily exclusive club.

Whether I Am Maximus can achieve that feat remains to be seen, but his remarkable consistency at Aintree and Mullins’ record in preparing Grand National winners make this one of the most intriguing stories heading into the 2027 Festival.

Experience the 2027 Grand National with Eventmasters Hospitality

Could you be at Aintree to witness Grand National history being made?

With I Am Maximus bidding to equal Red Rum’s legendary record, the 2027 Randox Grand National promises to be a particularly special occasion for racing enthusiasts.

Eventmasters is delighted to offer official Grand National hospitality packages for 2027, providing a fantastic opportunity to experience the action at Aintree Racecourse in style.

Our hospitality experiences include the Silks Restaurant, Papillon Restaurant and Princess Royal Restaurant, with premium racecourse admission, excellent viewing opportunities and superb dining and drinks available according to your chosen package.

Whether you are entertaining clients, rewarding colleagues or enjoying an unforgettable day with family and friends, our hospitality packages offer a premium way to experience one of the biggest occasions in the British sporting calendar.

Explore our Grand National 2027 hospitality packages and secure your place at Aintree for what could be a historic afternoon of horse racing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times has I Am Maximus won the Grand National?

I Am Maximus has won the Grand National twice, claiming victories in 2024 and 2026 under jockey Paul Townend. He also finished second behind Nick Rockett in 2025, giving him an exceptional record across his three appearances.

Which horse has won the Grand National three times?

Red Rum is the only horse to have won the Grand National three times, achieving victories in 1973, 1974 and 1977. I Am Maximus will be attempting to equal that record in 2027.

When is the 2027 Grand National?

The 2027 Randox Grand National takes place on Saturday 10th April 2027 at Aintree Racecourse, with the race scheduled to begin at 4:00pm. The three-day Festival runs from Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th April.

Who trains I Am Maximus?

I Am Maximus is trained by Willie Mullins in Ireland and owned by JP McManus. Mullins has already trained four Grand National winners, including Hedgehunter, Nick Rockett and I Am Maximus twice.

Can I book hospitality for the 2027 Grand National?

Yes. Eventmasters offers official Grand National hospitality packages for the 2027 Festival at Aintree Racecourse, including the Silks Restaurant, Papillon Restaurant and Princess Royal Restaurant. Packages are available across the three days of the Festival.