Team Japan’s group of 20 runners arrived safely in Riyadh for the Saudi Derby, including notable horses like Forever Young, the reigning Saudi Cup (G1) winner and 2025 Eclipse champion older dirt male. Japan will field five runners in the Saudi Derby (G3), a new points race on the European/Middle East Road to the Kentucky Derby, with four of these horses nominated for the 2026 Triple Crown.

Among the contenders are Best Green, who recently finished third in the Zen Nippon Nisai Yushun after an undefeated streak, and Tokai Ma Cherie, a filly who won the Hyogo Junior Grand Prix and is one of 11 fillies nominated to the Triple Crown. Other runners include Wonder Dean, with two second-place stakes finishes, and Keiai Agito, who has two wins from three starts, showcasing Japan’s strong presence in this international racing event.