I Am Maximus Claims Victory: 2026 Grand National Recap & Highlights at Aintree

Tom McCain-Mitchell, making his debut at the Grand National, was handed a 10-day suspension for not pulling up his horse, Top Of The Bill, despite the horse lagging behind. McCain-Mitchell is notably the grandson of Ginger McCain, the celebrated trainer of the legendary Red Rum.

Following the race, an evaluation of Top Of The Bill was conducted on the course to check for any injuries. Encouragingly, the horse was able to get back on its feet and was taken to the stables for a more thorough examination.

The Aintree stewards released a statement acknowledging that an inquiry was conducted to determine whether McCain-Mitchell should have withdrawn from the race earlier, especially given the horse’s sharp decline after initially being in a strong position.

Top Of The Bill had shown promise early on, taking a leading position when Amirite fell behind. However, the horse ultimately stumbled at the final fence, concluding its run in the prestigious race.

Top Of The Bill had been in a strong position for much of the race, even leading when Amirite dropped back, before falling at the last fence.