Entries for the Japan Cup (G1) Nov. 29 at Tokyo Racecourse, which carries a total purse of ¥1.09 billion (approx. US$6.85 million), closed Oct. 6. Though the list of entries is not yet officially announced, it is widely recognized that Francis-Henri Graffard's Calandagan should be included in the list as he seeks to achieve back-to-back Japan Cup wins.
LSU Stables' Far Bridge, who has won seven graded stakes including the Belmont Derby (G1T) in 2023 and the Sword Dancer Stakes (G1T) and Joe Hirsch Turf Classic (G1T) in 2024, and OXO Equine's Minaret Station, who won the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Oct. 1 at Belmont Park, are notable nominees from the United States.
Masquerade Ball, who was narrowly beaten by Calandagan in the Japan Cup last year and will try to get one better this year, looks to be a flag-bearer for the home nation. Though he was a disappointing seventh in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes (G1) last time out July 26, he disliked the undulating track at Ascot Racecourse and should be a much better horse returning to the flat Tokyo course.
Croix du Nord, who has won four grade 1s so far including the Tokyo Yushun (G1) in 2025 at the same course and distance as the Japan Cup, should join Masquerade Ball for Japan.
Both Masquerade Ball and Croix du Nord will be prepped Nov. 1 in the Tenno Sho Autumn (G1) at Tokyo.
