Eyes on aintree as favourite i am maximus seeks grand national repeat

The 2024 Grand National winner I Am Maximus tops the 34-strong field for this year's renewal at Aintree, with the 10-year-old gelding seeking to become the first top-weight victor since 1977. Paul Townend's mount was immense last year, staying on tenaciously to finish second behind Nick Rockett at the Elbow, and then showed signs of retaining that form when runner-up in a Grade One chase in December and fifth in the Irish Gold Cup.

Chances of the contenders

I Am Maximus is the clear favourite to follow up his 2024 success, with 11st 12lb on his back. At 10, he's still progressing, and his Aintree aptitude is a major plus. He should still find one or two too good, but another podium finish is on the cards.

Nick Rockett, now 9, returns to the Nationalafter a long absence, having finished seventh behind Gerri Colombe at Down Royal last month. He's 4lb higher in the weights but could still go close if back in the same form and mood.

Banbridge, another 10-year-old, has three Grade One wins to his name, including the King George VI Chase at Kempton in 2024. But he's been inconsistent and has yet to prove himself over three miles.