After his dramatic victory in the $20 million Saudi Cup, Japanese superstar Forever Young returns to the Middle East spotlight, aiming to become the first horse to complete the Saudi Cup – Dubai World Cup double when he lines up at Meydan on Saturday.
Already the winner of both the Saudi Derby and UAE Derby in 2023, Forever Young now seeks to add the $12 million Dubai World Cup to his glittering CV. Trained by Yoshito Yahagi, the Real Steel colt boasts an exceptional record of eight wins from ten starts, with his only defeats being third-place finishes in the Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup Classic — both at Grade 1 level.
His narrow Saudi Cup win on 22 February, where he edged out nine-time Group 1 winner Romantic Warrior after a thrilling home-straight duel, underlined his tenacity and class. Despite drawing Gate 5 in the 11-runner field, Yahagi remains confident.
Of course he had a tough race [in Riyadh], and he was a little fatigued for a few days. My staff really did a great job in aiding his recovery and from then the plan was always to come here and compete in the Dubai World Cup.
“I think the extra 200 metres will be an advantage for him and also going four turns [at Meydan] will benefit him. Some people have been concerned, but I actually think that having experienced that tough race, he has improved another level. I think it’s all positive. I don’t see any negatives
Jockey Ryusei Sakai, who also rides Shin Emperor in the $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic, is embracing the spotlight.
Obviously there is pressure. But personally, I really appreciate the opportunity given to me to ride top-class horses, not only in Japan but also on the world stage. Last year we were unable to win a Group 1 overseas with these two horses but this year we’re coming back to win as many races as possible with them, and perhaps every race.
While Forever Young headlines the field, local hopes rest with last year’s Dubai World Cup-winning trainer Bhupat Seemar, who saddles Walk Of Stars and Imperial Emperor in Laurel River’s absence.
He’s probably one of the best horses in the world. But he can have a bad day as well. Absolutely, this is horse racing. You've got to be in the race to win it.
Seemar’s duo are proven performers on this track, with stable jockey Tadhg O’Shea choosing Imperial Emperor — impressive in his recent win in the Group 2 Al Maktoum Classic — as his ride.
Imperial Emperor is improving. He’s honest as they come and very uncomplicated — a jockey’s dream. Walk Of Stars is hugely talented but quirky. He didn’t take Saudi well but he’s got a lot of stamina.
The international line-up includes a strong Japanese contingent with Ushba Tesoro, Wilson Tesoro, and Ramjet — all looking to reverse the Saudi Cup form. The American challenge is led by Rattle N Roll, ridden by William Buick, with Hit Show, Mixto, Il Miracolo, and Katanah also lining up.
With history on the line, all eyes will be on Forever Young to see if the Japanese colt can stamp his legacy as one of the greats in modern flat racing.
