Japanese master trainer Yoshito Yahagi added yet another victory to his impressive record at the Saudi Cup meeting, as Shin Emperor (FR) powered to an authoritative win in the $2 million Howden Neom Turf Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse.

This latest triumph brings Yahagi’s total to five wins at the prestigious event, following successes including Panthalassa’s victory in the Saudi Cup in 2023. Shin Emperor, a full brother to Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Sottsass, had attempted to claim the same French title last year but ultimately finished runner-up in the Japan Cup. Now, he has launched another international campaign in style.

Shin Emperor Makes All Under Sakai

Piloted by Ryusei Sakai, Shin Emperor wasted no time asserting control, surging to the front early with Trustyourinstinct (IRE) in pursuit. However, as the field entered the home straight, the chestnut colt extended his advantage effortlessly. He crossed the line a length and three-quarters ahead of Calif (GER) in second and Al Riffa (FR) in third, stopping the clock at 2:07.743.

Jockey and Trainer Reactions

Ryusei Sakai, jockey, Shin Emperor (1st):
"Our plan was always to go to the front, and he traveled beautifully throughout the race. I felt confident the whole way. Another horse was pressing on the outside, but my horse was simply better. I knew we had it won. He’s still improving, and I expect he’ll head to the Dubai Sheema Classic next. Winning at the Saudi Cup meeting is always special."

Yoshito Yahagi, trainer, Shin Emperor:
"I was convinced we would win once we hit the final 200 meters. Given today’s track conditions and pace bias, we decided taking the lead would be the best strategy, as long as he broke well. We’ve been targeting this race since the Japan Cup last year, and he delivered. Shin Emperor is a very versatile horse and can handle a variety of distances. Next up is the Dubai Sheema Classic, but beyond that, we’ll discuss with the owner. Personally, I would love to take him to Ascot and York."

The Challengers Reflect

Fawzi Nass, trainer, Calif (2nd):
"He ran a great race, but the slower pace didn’t quite suit him. He was beaten by a proven Group 1 horse. Sticking to the rail meant we had to wait for a clear run, but he finished strongly. He’ll head to the Sheema Classic next."

Joseph O’Brien, trainer, Al Riffa (3rd):
"It was a strong performance, especially as his first race of the season. He finished well, and we’re pleased. We’ll assess how he comes out of the race before making further plans."

James Doyle, jockey, Haunted Dream (4th):
"I’m so proud of him. He started his career rated just 65 in handicaps, and now he’s mixing it with Group 1 horses. That was a career-best performance."

Oisin Murphy, jockey, Killer Ability (10th):
"Shin Emperor was outstanding today—it was a high-quality race, and he stamped his class on it. Unfortunately, my horse didn’t fire this time, but he’s a Group 1 winner, and I’m sure he’ll have his day again soon."

With Shin Emperor now set for the Dubai Sheema Classic, Yahagi’s international ambitions remain firmly in motion. Could a trip to Royal Ascot or York be next on the horizon? Time will tell, but for now, the rising star of Japanese racing has firmly cemented his place on the global stage.