'The older I get, the more I enjoy it' - Mullins joins Aintree folklore

It was a Grand National to savour for Irish trainer Willie Mullins as he celebrated his third consecutive victory thanks to I Am Maximus - equalling the feat achieved by the legendary Vincent O'Brien. Between 1953 and 1955, O'Brien became the first trainer to win the iconic race three times in a row as Early Mist, Royal Tan and Quare Times triumphed. Mullins has now etched his name in Aintree folklore and told BBC Radio 5 Live: "That is some company to be up there with Vincent O'Brien.

He is a legend of legends in the game. "To be lucky enough to be mentioned in the same breath as him is just off the charts. You never dream of that sort of thing.

" It has not come easy for the 69-year-old, though. After winning his first National with Hedgehunter in 2005, Mullins had to be patient for 19 years until I Am Maximus landed the first of his two victories in 2024. He has since dominated with Nick Rockett (2025) and I Am Maximus (2026) making it four in total - equalling the records of George Dockeray, Fred Rimell and Ginger McCain.

I Am Maximus, ridden by Paul Townend, went into the race 9-2 favourite after significant late support by punters and became the first horse since Red Rum in 1977 to regain the Grand National. There was further history for I Am Maximus, with a handicap of 11st 12lb, becoming the first top weight to triumph since Red Rum carried 12st in 1974. When Ben Jones made his move on 28-1 shot Jordans around the final bend, Townend stalked the leaders on I Am Maximus and finally burst for the front near the famous Aintree elbow.