2025 Japan Cup: Viewing Guide and Key Details

The 2025 Japan Cup is set to take place on November 30 at the iconic Tokyo Racecourse. This prestigious horse racing event will attract global attention, much like the Breeders’ Cup in the United States.

Japan Cup Overview

The Japan Cup (G1) is a significant event in Japan’s racing calendar. It features a rich purse of approximately 1.09 billion yen, equivalent to around $7.2 million. This distance race is run on turf, covering 2,400 meters, or 1.5 miles.

History of the Japan Cup

• Established in 1981 by the Japan Racing Association.
• First winner: Mairzy Doates from the U.S. under jockey Cash Asmussen.
• International horses dominated the early years, winning nine of the first eleven editions.
• No international winner since 2005, with Japanese horses dominating since then, claiming 19 consecutive victories.

Key Competitors for 2025

This year, there is a notable absence of international competitors. However, Calandagan, a top-level European horse, is expected to be a strong contender. He recently achieved three consecutive Group 1 victories in England and France.

• Calandagan won the title of Cartier Horse of the Year for 2025.
• He could earn a bonus of $3 million if he wins the Japan Cup.

Another significant competitor, Shin Emperor, is a French-bred horse primarily racing in Japan. He is trained by Yoshito Yahagi and owned by Susumu Fujita. Last year, he finished in a dead heat for second place in the Japan Cup.

The Venue: Tokyo Racecourse

Tokyo Racecourse is Japan’s premier racing facility, comparable to Churchill Downs in the U.S. Opened in 1933, it features state-of-the-art amenities, including various racing surfaces and a large video screen. The venue can host up to 223,000 attendees, with an impressive record crowd of 187,524 in 1995.

Event Schedule

The Japan Cup weekend is a highlight for racing enthusiasts. It kicks off with the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby (G1) on November 29, featuring the Cattleya Stakes.

Cattleya Stakes

• Location: Tokyo Racecourse.
• Qualifying race for the 2026 Kentucky Derby.
• Offers points on a 10-5-3-2-1 scale to the top five finishers.

Viewing Options

For those in the U.S., the Japan Cup will be available live on FanDuel TV. The race is scheduled for approximately 3:40 p.m. local time, which translates to 1:40 a.m. Eastern time and 10:40 p.m. Pacific time the previous day.

Follow the Action

America’s Best Racing will provide comprehensive coverage on-site, featuring engaging content that highlights the vibrant atmosphere of Japanese horse racing. Fans can follow their TikTok and Instagram accounts for updates, with videos also shared on Facebook and X.

Prepare for an exciting experience at the 2025 Japan Cup, celebrating the thrill of international horse racing in Japan.