Forever Young thrilled all of Japan once again at Funabashi

The champion returned with a commanding victory in the Nippon TV Hai (L) and is already eyeing the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) at Del Mar

Forever Young returned to winning ways and is targeting the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) / THE SAUDI CUP

FUNABASHI, Japón (Special for Turf Diario).- When Forever Young turned for home at Funabashi, the grandstands erupted in a unified roar. Thousands of voices lifted the Japanese superstar, returning after a six-month absence, and the response was as always: class, power, and determination, reigniting the passion of an entire nation. The Real Steel colt seized control of the Nippon TV Hai (L-1800 m) with authority, making it clear that his dream of conquering the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) remains alive.

Sent off as the overwhelming favorite, the Yoshito Yahagi trainee was patient from the break. Cleanly away from gate 7, he settled just behind the early leaders, staying wide and clear of traffic. Approaching the final 800 meters, he began to pick up his stride, and by the stretch, he was visibly different. Angled out, full of action, he drew alongside and overtook stablemate Revontulet (Lord Kanaloa) in the final 200 meters before pulling clear to win by three lengths.

The numbers told their own story: Forever Young weighed 551 kilos—eight kilos heavier than when he captured the Tokyo Daishoten (G1) last December—showing that the layoff and preparation had done their work.

A national idol, the Susumu Fujita-owned bay had reached the pinnacle in February when he defeated Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior (Acclamation) in a memorable Saudi Cup (G1). The effort took its toll, however, and a few weeks later he finished third in the Dubai World Cup (G1), won by Hit Show (Candy Ride). Now, fully recovered and with nearly $15.5 million in earnings, his campaign is back on track.

Looking ahead, in just over four weeks, Del Mar awaits, where he will seek redemption in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) after finishing third in 2024 behind his close relative Sierra Leone (Gun Runner). And as he did this Wednesday at Funabashi, carried along by the roar of the crowd to another triumph, all of Japan will once again rally behind him, dreaming of the biggest victory yet.