I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner, heads to Aintree on Saturday as favourite to triumph again. Here is a look at the chances of all 34 contenders
One of two previous winners at the top of the weights and he backed up his 2024 success by pressing Nick Rockett all the way to the Elbow 12 months ago before finally crying enough. He had shown precious few hints of his National-winning form in two runs before that exceptional performance under top weight and has more to recommend him this year, having finished second in a Grade One in December and fifth in the Irish Gold Cup. In strict handicapping terms, he should probably find one or two too good, but Aintree aptitude is a serious weapon and another podium place is no forlorn hope.
Verdict: each-way hope on Aintree form, but no top-weight winner since 70s
The strict rules on eligibility these days meant that even last year’s winner had to run in a chase this season to qualify for his attempt at a repeat success. He duly booked his place in the field by finishing about seven lengths behind Gerri Colombe – also a rival on Saturday – at Down Royal last month. The reason for his long absence after last year’s race has never been entirely clear – “he took time to come to hand” covers plenty of bases – but he is just 4lb higher in the weights and will be in the mix if – and it has to be a significant if – he is in the same form and mood this time around.
