A Champion's Last Gallop: Forever Young's Final Farewell at Tokyo Daishoten
The Grand Finale: Forever Young's Imminent Retirement After the Tokyo Daishoten
The esteemed racehorse Forever Young is scheduled to make his last competitive appearance in the Grade 1 Tokyo Daishoten on December 29 at Ohi Racecourse, as announced by his trainer, Yoshito Yahagi, on Sunday. This highly anticipated event will mark the conclusion of a stellar career for the five-year-old son of Real Steel.
A Triumphant Return: Forever Young's Unblemished Record on Home Turf
Forever Young has a remarkable history with the 2,000-meter dirt race, having secured victory in the Daishoten in 2024. His participation in the upcoming Daishoten will be his first in Japan since his triumph in the Nippon TV Hai at Funabashi in October 2025. Throughout his career, he has maintained an impeccable record on Japanese soil, winning all six of his starts.
Trainer's Insight: Prioritizing Well-being and a Fond Farewell to Japanese Fans
Trainer Yahagi revealed that the decision to race in the Tokyo Daishoten is contingent on Forever Young's condition after he completes quarantine. He articulated that the race is envisioned as a heartfelt farewell to his devoted Japanese supporters. Yahagi emphasized that the horse's health is paramount, stating that any sign of discomfort or decline in condition would lead to immediate retirement, regardless of the planned race. The owner and stable share the desire for a final public appearance, underscoring that the financial aspect is secondary to honoring the horse's legacy.
A Career of Milestones: Reflecting on Forever Young's Global Achievements
This announcement comes shortly after Forever Young's fifth-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland, where he aimed to secure a second consecutive victory. Earlier in 2026, he made history as the first two-time winner of the Saudi Cup (G1), achieved a second-place finish in the Dubai World Cup (G1), and claimed victory in the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) at Belmont Park in September.
From Promising Beginnings to Racing Royalty: Forever Young's Journey
Forever Young was acquired by owner Susumu Fujita for 98 million yen at the 2022 JRHA Select Sale. Bred by Northern Farm from the mare Forever Darling, he commenced his career with three consecutive wins as a two-year-old, including the Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun (Jpn1).
International Triumphs and Unprecedented Success: A Legacy Forged in Dirt
His impressive journey continued in 2024 with victories in the Saudi Derby (G3) and UAE Derby (G2), followed by a third-place finish in the Kentucky Derby, which remains the best performance by a Japan-based horse in that prestigious event. That same year, he added the Japan Dirt Classic (Jpn1) and the Daishoten to his list of accomplishments.
Champion Status: Awards and Accolades of a Racing Icon
In 2025, Forever Young further cemented his legacy by winning the Saudi Cup and securing Japan's first Breeders' Cup Classic victory at Del Mar. These achievements earned him an Eclipse Award as champion older dirt male and the coveted Horse of the Year honors in Japan.
An Unparalleled Record: Forever Young's Enduring Impact on Horse Racing
Forever Young boasts an outstanding career record of 12 wins, 1 second, and 3 third-place finishes from 17 starts, including seven victories at the Grade 1 or Jpn1 level. His total earnings, approximately 5.06 billion yen, place him significantly ahead of other top earners, solidifying his status as one of the sport's all-time greats.