[Updated: 2026-01-23 18:38:46] Revised by AI Assistant
Analysis by AI
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2025 Horse of the Year: Who Will Claim the Crown? An In-Depth Look at the Intense Debate!
As the 2025 horse racing season draws to a close, one of the most anticipated discussions among fans revolves around the coveted “Horse of the Year” title. This year’s selection process is proving to be more contentious than ever, with particular attention focused on the evaluation of Forever Young, who has demonstrated overwhelming dominance on the dirt circuit. Diverse opinions are currently being voiced, making for a truly fascinating debate.
Forever Young: A Global Force on Dirt
Undoubtedly, Forever Young stands at the epicenter of the 2025 Horse of the Year debate. He achieved an unprecedented feat for a Japanese horse by conquering the world’s premier dirt G1 races: the Saudi Cup and the Breeders’ Cup Classic (BCC). His overwhelming performance rightfully earns him the title of “the world’s strongest dirt horse.”
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Online discussions heavily favor Forever Young, with many asserting his claim to the title. Comments such as “I believe Evayan, who achieved the best results in history, will be Horse of the Year,” “It’s not fair to dismiss him just because it’s dirt, as overseas dirt racing is incredibly competitive,” and “A Japanese horse won the world’s highest dirt race, the BCC, for the first time, in addition to the Saudi Cup. He has truly reigned as the world’s strongest dirt horse. In terms of a horse representing this year, there’s no other” reflect a strong appreciation for his unparalleled international achievements.
Turf Challengers: Can They Mount a Comeback?
However, it is also a well-known fact that the Horse of the Year selection often places significant emphasis on success in JRA-hosted turf G1 races. Questions are frequently raised, such as “Does it have to be a turf horse?” and “Can a horse who hasn’t won a JRA G1 become Horse of the Year?” This highlights the primary point of contention regarding Forever Young’s lack of starts in major JRA turf races.
Specifically, the outcomes of major year-end races like the Japan Cup and the Arima Kinen could potentially allow turf-focused horses to stage an upset. Names like Masquerade, Croix du Nord, and Danon Decile are frequently mentioned as strong contenders. Sentiments like “If Masquerade wins the Japan Cup, then Masquerade will be Horse of the Year 99% of the time,” and “If Croix wins the JC, it’s almost certainly Croix” underscore the significance of these upcoming races.
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Jantar Mantar is also considered a formidable candidate. However, some critical opinions exist, such as “I don’t think Jantar Mantar, with a relaxed schedule of 3 starts and 2 wins domestically, is as strong a candidate as Forever Young.” His performance in upcoming races will be crucial for his standing.
The Complexities of Horse of the Year Selection
This ongoing debate has clearly illuminated the inherent difficulties in selecting the Horse of the Year. How should the selection committee weigh achievements in the JRA race system against success in major international races, and how should the distinct challenges of dirt versus turf racing be evaluated? The Horse of the Year, determined by journalist votes, is not merely about raw statistics but also symbolizes the very essence of the racing year.
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While some argue, “It would be an embarrassment to select a horse based on non-JRA race results, implicitly stating that JRA is inferior to America,” others voice criticism towards the JRA, stating, “It’s JRA’s fault for not creating a world championship race for dirt and instead pushing dirt racing to local circuits.”
It is almost certain that Forever Young will be crowned the Best Dirt Horse. However, becoming the Horse of the Year is widely seen as a different matter entirely. Past examples are often cited, such as Lord Kanaloa being Horse of the Year while Orfevre was Best Older Male, or Maurice as Horse of the Year while Lovely Day was Best Older Male. These instances highlight how divisional awards and the overall Horse of the Year title do not always align, leading to concerns about “mystery influence” or unspoken considerations.
The Road Ahead: A Thrilling Conclusion
The results of the Japan Cup and the Arima Kinen will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the 2025 Horse of the Year selection. Can the top turf contenders claim victory in these prestigious races and leave an impact comparable to, or even surpassing, Forever Young’s? Or will Forever Young’s undeniable global achievements finally shatter the traditional turf-centric selection criteria?
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Horse racing fans will undoubtedly remain glued to the thrilling race outcomes and passionate discussions that will continue until the very end of the year.
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