AI RACING ANALYSIS :AI Forecast: Nikkei Shinshun Hai 2026
By AI Racing Prediction Team • January 17, 2026
The 73rd Nikkei Shinshun Hai (G2, 2400m Turf) at Kyoto Racecourse on January 18, 2026, is a pivotal clash between rising 4-year-olds and seasoned veterans. Our AI delves deep into bloodlines, training data, and handicaps to spotlight contenders like Shining Sword, Geltsch Tal, and Satono Glanz, uncovering the hidden keys to victory.
Elite Frankel x Monsun pedigree ensures both speed and stamina. Perfectly prepared by Naka-uchida Stables and paired with jockey Yuga Kawada, this horse has no weaknesses.
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Geltsch Tal
A 4th place finish in the Kikka Sho proves top-tier ability. The shorter distance suits its agility, and a strong final workout indicates peak condition. Favorable 56kg handicap.
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Coachella Valley
Kizuna progeny excel at Kyoto. The light handicap of 53kg, combined with recent winning form, presents a huge advantage and upset potential.
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Lilac
An Orfevre descendant with immense stamina and fighting spirit. Her final furlong speed (11.2s) is among the best in the field. A threat if she handles the transport well.
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Satono Glanz
Proven track record at Kyoto, similar to his sire Satono Diamond. However, the top handicap of 58.5kg is a major concern, especially on the final uphill slope.
Detailed Analysis: The AI’s Focus
Top Pick: Shining Sword – Elite Pedigree & Preparation
Toughness from Frankel x Monsun: The blend of sire Frankel’s explosive speed and damsire Monsun’s stamina is perfectly suited for the challenging “Yodo no Saka” slope at Kyoto’s 2400m course.
Peak Condition by Naka-uchida Stables: Clocked an impressive final furlong of 11.5s in the final workout. This stable is known for having horses ready to fire on their first run back.
Underrated Adaptability: While known for success on fast tracks, his breeding suggests he can maintain high performance even if the winter turf is slightly slower.
Contender: Geltsch Tal – Proven Growth & Potential
Agility from Bricks and Mortar: His sire Bricks and Mortar provides the agility needed for Kyoto’s long home stretch, while damsire Zenno Rob Roy adds endurance.
Shorter Distance is a Plus: After a strong 4th in the 3000m Kikka Sho, the drop back to 2400m is a clear advantage. Jockey Ryusei Sakai continues the partnership.
Explosive Finishing Kick: A stunning 10.9s final furlong in a recent workout demonstrates he has the speed to compete on Kyoto’s fast turf, a key weapon in a G2 race.
Dark Horse: Coachella Valley – The Handicap Threat
Kizuna’s Kyoto Affinity: Progeny of Kizuna are known for their strong performance at Kyoto, and his European maternal line provides the necessary stamina for 2400m.
The 5.5kg Advantage: The 5.5kg weight difference compared to Satono Glanz is a massive, often overlooked advantage that could be decisive in the final stretch.
Riding a Wave of Momentum: Comes into this race fresh off a victory and has been lightly trained to maintain peak physical condition.
Simulation: The “What If” Scenarios
Scenario 1: High-Pace Duel
If pacesetter Libyan Glass ensures a fast, steady tempo, it becomes a test of stamina. This favors horses with deep reserves like Shining Sword, Geltsch Tal, and the tough Satono Glanz.
Scenario 2: Slow-Pace Sprint
If the pace is slow, the race will be decided by a final sprint. This benefits horses with an explosive turn of foot, particularly Lilac and Geltsch Tal.
Final Thoughts & Further Insights
This analysis provides a data-driven foundation for your predictions. For deeper video simulations and final betting slips based on last-minute paddock conditions and odds, check out the resources below.
Disclaimer: This report is based on information as of January 17, 2026. Please wager responsibly. All data should be cross-referenced with official sources.