Trainer Yoshito Yahagi, confident that Forever Young was nearly unbeatable after defeating Romantic Warrior last year, is returning to Riyadh this Saturday with his Breeders’ Cup champion to attempt making history as the first horse to win back-to-back titles in the Group 1 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on February 14th.
Yahagi viewed Hong Kong legend Romantic Warrior as the only real threat in the $20 million 2025 race. This belief was confirmed when the two competitors battled neck-and-neck down the final stretch, with Forever Young clinching victory by a neck after taking the lead in the last 25 meters.
“I didn’t expect to lose to any horse,” Yahagi admitted. “But I wasn’t entirely sure about Romantic Warrior since it was my first time competing on dirt. If Forever Young was going to win, then Romantic Warrior had to win too.”
Romantic Warrior charged aggressively into the stretch and seemed poised to win, but Ryusei Sakai’s masterful ride on Forever Young helped him prevail in a thrilling finish. Yahagi expressed disbelief at the outcome, saying, “Honestly, I thought I lost at the end. It was an incredible race.”
Yahagi is targeting his third Saudi Cup win in just seven editions, following Panthalassa’s success in 2023. Forever Young’s upcoming race will mark his first start since making history as the first Japanese trainer to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar last November.
Yahagi noted, “Since the Breeders’ Cup, he missed the Tokyo Grand Prix. Initially, he was a bit heavy, but he is steadily improving.” He added that the counter-clockwise track and long home stretch at the Saudi Cup suit Forever Young’s style well, and praised Ryusei Sakai’s deep familiarity and dependable partnership with the horse. The same duo also secured victory in the 2024 Saudi Derby.
Yahagi, who has captured prestigious events like the Dubai World Cup, Hong Kong races, and Australia’s Cox Plate, is a prominent figure in promoting Japanese horse racing internationally. He believes Forever Young’s Breeders’ Cup Classic win catalyzed a significant shift within the Japanese racing scene. “Although horse racing isn’t yet the top sport in Japan, I am motivated to help the sport grow,” Yahagi remarked.
He emphasized Japan’s ambition to be a global leader in horse racing, pointing out the critical role of fan support and betting in maintaining high prize money, which encourages owners to invest heavily. “The industry’s health depends on this fan engagement,” he explained.
Forever Young placed third in last year’s Dubai World Cup and may return to Meydan, though future Breeders’ Cup plans remain undecided. Yahagi stated, “He is set to run in the Saudi Cup and Dubai World Cup this spring. We haven’t finalized any plans for the fall yet.” He also mentioned the upcoming Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland poses different considerations compared to West Coast venues, and that discussions with owner Mr. Fujita about the horse’s future are ongoing.
Yahagi also brings two reigning champions to this meet. Shin Emperor, who triumphed in last year’s Howden Neom Turf Cup, will aim to defend his title in the now Group 1 event with a $3 million prize. Yahagi shared, “I’m feeling very confident; this race has been a long-term goal. The flat, counterclockwise 2,100m course suits him well. He doesn’t need to lead but I want him well-positioned.” He also hinted at Shin Emperor’s potential for further growth despite appearing mature.
Fans can watch the action live via livestream or on DAZN. For more details, visit www.jcsa.sa.
This article first appeared in the News section of Paulick Report on February 9, 2026.
Fan Take: This news spotlights the rising prominence of Japanese trainers and horses in top international races, emphasizing the global nature of modern horse racing. Forever Young’s attempt to make history with a consecutive Saudi Cup win could inspire further international competition and elevate the sport’s worldwide appeal.
