Forever Young crowned Japanese Horse of the Year

Forever Young has been named the 2025 Japanese Horse of the Year, becoming the first dirt horse to win the award.

The son of Real Steel, racing in Susumu Fujita’s silks, also claimed titles as Best Older Male and Best Dirt Horse.

His stellar 2025 included a thrilling victory over Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior in February’s G1 Saudi Cup, a third-place finish in the G1 Dubai World Cup, and a triumphant return in October’s Nippon TV Hai. His crowning achievement came in November with a win in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar.

“As an owner, I never dreamed the day would come when I would win Horse of the Year,” said Fujita, chairman of CyberAgent, Inc, the company behind the phenomenally popular Umamusume franchise.

“Thank you for choosing Forever Young. I owe this to the efforts of many people, including Yahagi Stable, jockey Rusei Sakai, and Northern Farm.”

Trainer Yoshito Yahagi added, “I am very honoured to receive this prestigious award. It proves the greatness of what he has achieved.”

Forever Young will head towards a Saudi Cup title defence next month and another shot at the Dubai World Cup in March.

Other JRA Award Winners:

Special Award: Calandagan (Japan Cup winner)

Champion Two-Year-Old Male: Cavallerizzo

Champion Two-Year-Old Filly: Star Anise

Champion Three-Year-Old Male: Museum Mile

Champion Three-Year-Old Filly: Embroidery

Champion Older Mare: Regaleira

Champion Sprinter: Satono Reve

Champion Miler: Jantar Mantar

Champion Steeplechaser: Ecoro Duel