Calandagan Shatters 20-Year Japan Cup Drought in Historic French Victory

French-trained champion Calandagan made history at Tokyo Racecourse. The four-year-old became the first overseas winner of the Japan Cup in two decades. His dramatic photo-finish victory on November 30, 2025, captivated the racing world.

This win breaks a long-standing dominance by Japanese contenders. According to the Japan Racing Association, the last foreign winner was Alkaased in 2005. Calandagan’s triumph signals a powerful return for European thoroughbreds on the global stage.

A Nail-Biting Finish for the Record Books

Jockey Mickael Barzalona executed a perfect ride. He held Calandagan in a midfield position before unleashing a powerful surge in the final stretch. The crowd watched in suspense as two horses fought neck-and-neck to the wire.

Calandagan edged out local favorite Masquerade Ball by the slimmest of margins. The official winning time was a record-breaking 2:20.3 for the 2400-meter turf course. This victory marks Calandagan’s fourth consecutive Group 1 win this season.

The win was a massive financial success for owner Aga Khan Studs. Calandagan secured the first-place prize of £2.6 million. An additional £2.3 million bonus was earned through a qualifying victory scheme.

Training Excellence and Global Recognition

Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard has cemented his status as a world-class conditioner. His strategic preparation allowed Calandagan to peak for this international challenge. This victory is a testament to Graffard’s expertise in managing elite racehorses.

The Aga Khan Studs have shown immense faith in Graffard’s program. This Japan Cup win follows stablemate Daryz’s recent victory in the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Together, these successes demonstrate the stable’s global reach and competitive strength.

This result validates the quality of European breeding and training. It provides a significant boost for connections aiming at other international races. The victory will likely influence future entries from European stables.

Calandagan’s Japan Cup victory will be remembered as a landmark moment for international horse racing, proving that with the right horse and preparation, any barrier can be broken.

Thought you’d like to know

Who trained Calandagan for his Japan Cup win?

Francis-Henri Graffard was the winning trainer. He is a highly respected French conditioner based in Chantilly. This victory represents a career highlight for his stable.

How much prize money did Calandagan earn?

The total earnings reached £4.9 million. This figure includes the £2.6 million first-place prize and a £2.3 million bonus. The bonus was awarded for a previous qualifying victory.

What was the winning margin in the race?

The finish was a photo-finish, decided by inches. Calandagan just edged out the Japanese contender Masquerade Ball. The official result required a review of the photo.

Why was this Japan Cup victory so significant?

It ended a 20-year winning streak for Japanese-trained horses. The last overseas winner was Alkaased in 2005. This makes Calandagan’s achievement a historic breakthrough.

What is Calandagan’s racing record now?

He has now won four consecutive Group 1 races. His season includes wins at the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. The Japan Cup is his most prestigious victory to date.