The 2025 Japanese Derby winner, Croix du Nord, is targeting the Japan Cup (November 30) for his next race following his campaign in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. This article covers his current condition, training status, jockey information, and the possibility of a switch to the Arima Kinen depending on his fitness. We’ll provide the latest updates on Croix du Nord and a summary of the top contenders for the 2025 Japan Cup.
Key Takeaways
- After finishing 14th in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Croix du Nord is now being prepared for the Japan Cup.
- Jockey Yuichi Kitamura, who rode him to victory in the Derby, is scheduled to continue as his rider.
- If his condition is not optimal, a switch to the Arima Kinen (December 28) is being considered.
- Contenders for the Japan Cup include Danon Decile and international horse Goliath.
Croix du Nord’s Latest Status: Will He Run in the Japan Cup?
After winning this year’s Japanese Derby and taking on the challenge of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in France, all eyes are on Croix du Nord’s next move.
Current Condition After Returning from the Arc
Croix du Nord, who finished 14th in the Arc, is currently conditioning at Northern Farm Shigaraki near the Ritto Training Center after returning to Japan. He is scheduled to return to the Ritto Training Center early next week to begin preparations in earnest for the Japan Cup. Jockey Yuichi Kitamura is expected to continue as his rider.
Source: livedoor.com
Japan Cup is the Primary Target, with Arima Kinen as an Alternative
The stable’s primary goal is the Japan Cup (G1, 2400m turf) at Tokyo Racecourse on November 30. However, considering the fatigue from the trip to France, they have indicated that if his workout performance is not up to par, they will not push him and may shift their target to the year-end grand prix, the Arima Kinen (G1, December 28, Nakayama 2500m turf). It was also announced that they have declined an invitation to the Hong Kong Cup (December 14), for which he was pre-registered.
2025 Japan Cup: Overview and Notable Entrants
The Japan Cup brings together top-class racehorses from around the world. The 2025 edition is expected to feature strong contenders from both Japan and abroad.
Race Details
| Date | Sunday, November 30, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Racecourse | Tokyo Racecourse |
| Course | 2,400 meters (Turf) |
| Full Gate | 18 horses |
| Entries Finalized | Thursday, November 27, 2025 (scheduled) |
Top Contenders from Japan and Abroad
The following horses are listed as potential entrants at this time and are expected to be strong rivals for Croix du Nord.
- Danon Decile: This year’s Japanese Derby winner. After an overseas campaign, he is scheduled to head straight to the Japan Cup.
- Goliath (France): A formidable French contender expected to participate for the second consecutive year. He is in good form, having won the Grosser Preis von Baden in September.
- Kalandagan (Ireland): A talented horse who won the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes in July. He is listed among the initial international entries.
- Durezza: A proven performer who tied for second place in last year’s Japan Cup. He is once again a leading candidate this year.
Many other strong horses are scheduled to run, and the final field will be confirmed when entries are finalized on November 27.
Sources: netkeiba.com, sportingnews.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Croix du Nord’s next race confirmed?
The primary target is the Japan Cup on November 30, 2025, but the final decision will be made after assessing his condition upon returning to training. If he is not ready, the Arima Kinen on December 28 is the likely alternative.When will the 2025 Japan Cup be held?
The 2025 Japan Cup will be held on Sunday, November 30, at Tokyo Racecourse over a distance of 2400m on turf. The final entries will be confirmed on Thursday, November 27.Who is Croix du Nord’s jockey?
Jockey Yuichi Kitamura, who rode him to victory in the Japanese Derby, is scheduled to continue as his rider for the next race.
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