Forever Young and Yoshito Yahagi: A Story Set to Continue in 2026

Japanese Trainer Confirms Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) Hero Will Stay in Training, Targeting the Saudi Cup and Dubai World Cup Next

Forever Young Was Simply Incredible in the Classic/ BREEDERS' CUP

DEL MAR, California (From a Turf Diario Special Correspondent) — “It still hasn’t sunk in.” With that single phrase, Yoshito Yahagi summed up his disbelief after conquering the Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) with Forever Young last Saturday—his third Breeders’ Cup victory, and by far the most monumental of them all.

“There was massive media coverage in Japan, far more than I ever expected,” said Japan’s most charismatic trainer, easily recognizable by his trademark hats and boundless ambition. “That’s what’s really making me feel the weight of what we achieved in the Classic.”

Early Sunday morning, Yahagi checked on his colt and couldn’t have been happier with what he saw. “I looked him over and he came out of the race much better than I expected, to be honest. He’s physically developed and always recovers faster than most horses. I think that’s what you need to compete on the world stage.”

Forever Young was partnered, as usual, by stable rider Ryusei Sakai, a jockey Yahagi has known since his early days. “I got worried when Sierra Leone came flying on the outside, but Forever Young stayed strong. I’ve known Ryusei since before he was a professional, so this victory carries a special meaning for me. He has great confidence and tremendous ability.”

The celebration was pure Yahagi style. “We toasted at a Mexican restaurant while watching the Los Angeles Dodgerswin the World Series,” he said with a grin. “It was a great game and a great series, although I’m a little disappointed that our story got slightly overshadowed.”

As for the future, Yahagi left no doubt: Forever Young will remain in training for the 2026 season, with another international campaign on the horizon.

“He’ll stay in training in 2026 as long as he’s healthy,” Yahagi confirmed. “His next race will be the Saudi Cup (G1), followed by the Dubai World Cup (G1) as part of his spring campaign. I’d like to give him the rest of the year off, since this season was entirely focused on the Breeders’ Cup.”

Fully aware of the logistical challenges of the next edition, he added: “Keeneland will definitely be more demanding for Japanese horses than the West Coast, but I still want to send my horses to the Breeders’ Cup.”

The story of Forever Young and “the man in the hat” is far from over. It’s a partnership that continues to elevate Japanese racing—and one that has already carved an indelible place in the history of the Breeders’ Cup.