Aidan O’Brien, the renowned world #1 trainer, has made a significant mark in the international racing scene. His horses have achieved remarkable feats, and his presence in Japan has created quite a stir. In this article, we will explore the various racing events and news from around the world, with a focus on the Japan Cup and other notable races.

Uncover the Latest International Racing News with Aidan O’Brien

Japan Cup: Auguste Rodin and Goliath Take on the Home Team

In Tokyo on Sunday [Nov 24], Europe is represented by dual Derby winner Auguste Rodin and King George winner Goliath. They face a formidable domestic contingent headed by Tenno Sho (Autumn) winner Do Deuce and dual fillies’ Classic winner Cervinia. Also in the field are Arc flop Shin Emperor and another double Classic winner in Stars On Earth. Auguste Rodin, a son of the late, great Deep Impact, has created a buzz. The five-year-old is to be accorded a retirement ceremony after the race, making him the first overseas horse to receive such an honour. Aidan O’Brien expressed his gratitude, saying, "I couldn't think of a better race for a last race than the Japan Cup." This shows the significance of the event and the respect for the horses.Another notable horse in the Japan Cup is Goliath. He has shown great potential and is ready to compete against the best in Japan. The race is expected to be a thrilling showdown between these European visitors and the local talent.

Cartier Awards: City Of Troy Named Horse of the Year

Derby winner City Of Troy was crowned Cartier Horse of the Year at the glitzy ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London on Wednesday [Nov 20]. After a successful career that included the Eclipse Stakes and Juddmonte International, the son of US Triple Crown winner Justify has retired to Coolmore's Irish base. Kyprios, City Of Troy's stablemate and another former world #1, along with leading miler Charyn and Arc winner Bluestocking, also made the final for Horse of the Year. Trainer Jessica Harrington received the Cartier/Daily Telegraph Award of Merit for 2024. This recognition highlights the achievements of these horses and their trainers.

Breeders’ Cup winner More Than Looks Retired to Lane’s End

Breeders’ Cup Mile winner More Than Looks has been retired to Lane’s End, where he will stand at an initial fee of $15,000 for the 2025 covering season. Trainer Cherie DeVaux praised his abilities, saying, "He’s an eye-catching horse that showed elite ability from day one. His explosive turn of foot and competitive nature led to consistency at the highest level, and ultimately resulted in him becoming a Breeders’ Cup champion." Johannes, who was close behind in the BC Mile, will target the Pegasus World Cup Turf at Gulfstream Park on January 25.

Bahrain hero Spirit Dancer Set for Hong Kong Cup

Spirit Dancer, who won back-to-back successes in the Bahrain International Trophy last Friday [Nov 15], is set to travel to the Far East to contest the Hong Kong Cup. Probable fields for the annual Longines-sponsored Hong Kong International Races on December 8 were released on Wednesday [Nov 20], featuring a total of 26 individual G1 winners and 31 horses from overseas. Co-owned by legendary Man. Utd. football manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Spirit Dancer will travel directly to Hong Kong from Bahrain after showing signs of a minor colic. There were two supplementary entries for the HKIR: Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint winner Starlust and The Foxes, who won the Churchill Stakes at Newcastle on Saturday [Nov 16].

Janney to Stand Down as Jockey Club Chair

Stuart S. Janney III is set to step down as chair of the Jockey Club in August 2025 after ten years in the role. He will be succeeded by Everett Dobson, a member of the board of stewards. Janney was awarded the Eclipse Award of Merit earlier this year. Everett Dobson, owner of Candy Meadows broodmare farm in Lexington, Kentucky, is a longtime owner-breeder and races under the Cheyenne Stables banner.

Trainer Paul Valery Handed Nine-year Ban Amid Drug Violations

In one of the most serious punishments by the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU), trainer Paul Valery has been banned for nine years for multiple drug offenses. He comes from Venezuela and has been fined $75,500 after admitting to six violations. Two of his horses that ran at Gulfstream Park tested positive for multiple drugs, including synthetic anabolic steroids. This incident highlights the importance of drug testing and integrity in horseracing.

Elsewhere in Racing...

In Canada, Emma-Jayne Wilson faces months on the sidelines. In the USA, all Breeders’ Cup post-race samples have been cleared by HIWU. Senor Buscador will have two more starts before going to stud. In Australia, five-time G1 winner Elvstroem passed away at the age of 24. In Hong Kong, all 12 HK G1 races have been added to the World Pool. In the UK, the Cesarewitch winner has been reinstated amid whip embarrassment. Charlie Boss has been appointed interim Jockey Club chief exec. In New Zealand, Te Akau secures a record-breaking colt.View all previous editions of Seven Days In Racing and the latest TRC Global Rankings for horses / jockeys / trainers / sires.