Connections of Japanese star Forever Young have confirmed that the colt will target two of North America's most prestigious dirt races later this year, with a campaign that will take him from the Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park to the Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland.

The announcement follows what were described as extensive discussions between trainer Yoshito Yahagi and owner Shin Fujita, with the horse's condition closely monitored before a final decision was reached.

Before confirming the schedule, Yahagi acknowledged the international interest shown in the horse, expressing gratitude to racing authorities and racecourses that had extended invitations and opportunities. In particular, he thanked France Galop and Leopardstown Racecourse for their offers as connections weighed up the options available to one of the world's leading dirt performers.

After assessing the available targets, the team elected to remain focused on a dirt campaign in the United States. Forever Young is scheduled to make his next appearance in the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) over 2,000 meters at Belmont Park on September 18 before progressing to the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), also contested over 2,000 meters, at Keeneland on October 31.

The decision provides a clear roadmap for the remainder of the season and keeps Forever Young on a path toward one of the most coveted prizes in global dirt racing. His performance in the Jockey Club Gold Cup will serve as the final stepping stone before he takes on the Breeders' Cup Classic challenge later in the autumn.

With the schedule now confirmed, attention turns to preparations for a campaign that will see Forever Young attempt to add further international success on some of American racing's biggest stages.