Countdown Stakes 2025 Predictions

The season finale at Hanshin Racecourse. We’re breaking down the key contenders—Lord My Life, Band Shell, and the AI-favorite Itsumo Nikoniko—by analyzing their pedigree, form, and recent workouts to give you the winning edge.

Key Takeaways

• ▶Emanuele: Shows exceptional form in training and is poised to benefit from the course change.
• ▶Lord My Life: A strong contender for a comeback if he gets a clean run, after facing disadvantages in his last race.
• ▶Itsumo Nikoniko: The top AI pick. All eyes are on whether her impressive speed will hold up in this higher-class race.
• ▶Band Shell: Unquestionably talented, but his performance hinges entirely on a successful start from the gate.

Race Overview

Date

Sunday, December 28, 2025

Venue

Hanshin Racecourse, Race 12

Conditions

1200m Turf (Right-handed, B Course) / 3-Win Class / Set Weights

Forecast

Clear Skies / Firm Ground

Top Contender Analysis

Favorite – Odds: 3.6

Lord My Life

4yo Colt / Ritto Training Center / H. Sugiyama

Sired by sprint champion Lord Kanaloa out of a mare by stamina-type Jungle Pocket, he’s the projected favorite. His 6th place finish in the Kibitaki Stakes was due to being boxed in on the straight, preventing him from running his true race. A strong workout on Dec 24th at Ritto Hill indicates he’s in prime condition. Trainer H. Sugiyama commented, “He’s recovered well after a short break. He has the ability to compete at this level.” A strong bounce-back is expected.

High Potential

Band Shell

4yo Colt / Ritto Training Center / N. Nishimura

His pedigree, by Bandwagon out of a Rulership mare, suggests a potent mix of power and stamina. He clocked an impressive time at Ritto Hill on Dec 25th with jockey M. Iwata, signaling excellent form. However, his main challenge remains the starting gate. As trainer Nishimura states, “If he can just get a clean start, he has the talent to win.” His entire race hinges on those first few seconds.

AI Top Pick

Itsumo Nikoniko

4yo Filly / Ritto Training Center / T. Hamada

Sired by Big Arthur with a dam by Dance in the Dark, this filly combines raw speed with underlying stamina. Her powerful run in her Dec 24th workout shows she’s maintaining peak condition. Notably, she is the top-rated choice (“◎”) by our CPU prediction AI, making her a must-watch for data-driven bettors. Trainer Hamada is optimistic, hoping “she can run her race comfortably” as she moves up in class.

Dark Horses & Notables

Emanuele (5yo Colt)

Earned an ‘A’ rating for his final workout, showing the most improvement in the field. Sired by Lord Kanaloa, the switch to the Hanshin course is seen as a significant advantage.

Astis Spumante (4yo Filly)

Will be equipped with blinkers for the first time. Trainer Y. Sato mentioned, “If the track is firm,” suggesting she could deliver a surprising performance on good ground.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Countdown Stakes is shaping up to be a tight contest, but each top contender has a clear path to victory. Our top picks are based on a combination of raw talent, current form, and favorable conditions.

Top Pick: Lord My Life – Superior talent, poised for redemption.

AI Selection: Itsumo Nikoniko – Data-backed speed to overcome the class jump.

Best Value: Emanuele – Peaking at the right time with a favorable course change.

For detailed betting slips and the final conclusion, check our trusted partner:VIEW FINAL PREDICTIONS