With Danon Decile in the Sheema Classic, Japanese turf completed a brilliant—though not flawless—evening

The surprise victory by the son of Epiphaneia completed a Meydan treble for the racing powerhouse of the Land of the Rising Sun

Danon Decile got the better of Calandagan and Rebel's Romance / DRC

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (Special for Turf Diario) – The Longines Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) once again confirmed the dominance of Japanese racing on the international stage. This time, it was Danon Decile, one of the most promising products of the new Japanese generation, who sealed a decisive victory under the calm and precise guidance of Keita Tosaki.

Winner of the Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) in 2023, the chestnut arrived at Meydan for just his tenth race and his first outing outside Japan. Facing a field filled with international stars, the Shogo Yasuda trainee displayed maturity, class, and an unyielding finish, crossing the line in 2:27.05 for the 2400 meters to claim a dominant victory.

The race had several key players throughout its development. First, his compatriot Shin Emperor—third in the Derby and recent winner in Saudi Arabia—took the lead. Then, the defending champion and Godolphin hopeful Rebel's Romance, with William Buick dictating the pace with apparent ease, moved to the front.

In the straight, Durezza posed the first serious threat with 400 meters remaining. But Tosaki began to urge Danon Decile, who responded strongly, passing all his rivals to cross the line with a 1 ¼-length advantage over Calandagan, who closed late from the back to secure second. Durezza held off Rebel's Romance to complete the podium.

The victory was also a significant milestone for young trainer Shogo Yasuda, son of the legendary Takayuki Yasuda, who was responsible for the brilliant sprinter Lord Kanaloa. For Tosaki, three-time champion jockey in Japan, it was a sweet redemption following his runner-up finish in the 2021 Dubai World Cup with Chuwa Wizard.

“He’s really, really a great horse,” said an emotional Tosaki. “There was a lot of pressure on me, so winning this race is fantastic. To the people watching us from Japan, even though it’s very late, I want to say thank you, I’m very happy.”

“I was a little excited before the race, but he calmed down once he entered the starting gate. He ran really well, traveling comfortably with the brakes on. I expected a performance similar to the Tokyo Yushun… and he did it.”

“I knew the field was strong, but I was confident that Danon Decile was competitive. I’m glad I was able to show his quality here in Dubai.”.