The $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar made history with Forever Young becoming the first Japanese-bred-and-based horse to win North America’s richest race, narrowly defeating Sierra Leone. The article then shifts focus to the upcoming Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse on Nov. 30, a prestigious turf race over 2,400 meters with a purse comparable to the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Established in 1981 to attract international competition, the Japan Cup has seen a dominance of Japanese winners since 2005, with few foreign contenders in recent years. The 2025 race is expected to feature European favorite Calandagan, a top-level horse with multiple Group 1 wins, alongside mostly Japanese-bred runners.
Tokyo Racecourse, Japan’s premier racing venue, hosts the Japan Cup along with other major races and offers a family-friendly atmosphere with large crowds and modern facilities. The Japan Cup weekend includes the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby qualifying race, adding to the event’s excitement. U.S. viewers can watch the Japan Cup live on FanDuel TV, and America’s Best Racing will provide on-site coverage and social media updates to showcase the event and Japan’s passionate horse racing culture.
