The stage is set for one of world racing’s grandest spectacles — the 2025 LONGINES Hong Kong International Races, which has attracted an extraordinary 185 nominations, including 70 individual Group 1 winners. With record prize money of HK$130 million on offer, the December 14 showdown at Sha Tin Racecourse promises a celebration of global excellence, emotion, and pride — the hallmarks of what Hong Kong calls its “Turf World Championships.”
This year’s entries come from five continents, confirming Hong Kong’s enduring place at the heart of international racing. From the mighty Romantic Warrior chasing a record fourth Cup, to the electrifying sprinter Ka Ying Rising eyeing another Sprint triumph, the home heroes are set to meet some of the world’s most decorated names — Tastiera, Via Sistina, Rebel’s Romance, Minnie Hauk, and Croix Du Nord among them.
Record-Breaking Purse and Global Participation
The four Group 1 features — the HK$40 million LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m), HK$36 million LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m), HK$28 million LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) and HK$26 million LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400m) — have drawn powerhouse stables from Japan, France, Ireland, Australia, the UAE, Great Britain, the USA, and beyond.
Hong Kong’s elite runners, led by Romantic Warrior, Ka Ying Rising, and Voyage Bubble, will carry local hopes. Romantic Warrior, already a 10-time Group 1 winner, aims to add another glittering chapter to his story. Ka Ying Rising, fresh from his The Everest (1200m) victory, stands as the sport’s most explosive sprinter. Voyage Bubble, Hong Kong’s second-ever Triple Crown hero, could feature in both the Cup and the Mile, while the emerging star My Wish looks to cement his reputation after his recent Sha Tin Trophy triumph.
Japan Leads the Charge
Japan has once again sent an imposing army, boasting 50 entries and 19 Group 1 winners. Among them, Tastiera, Satono Reve, Soul Rush, and Croix Du Nord headline a squad that continues to dominate on the international circuit. Soul Rush, victorious in the G1 Dubai Turf, is aiming for redemption after finishing second last year in the Mile, while Tastiera — the 2025 FWD QEII Cup winner — is set for another clash with Romantic Warrior.
In the Sprint, Japan’s Win Carnelian and June Blair could lock horns once again after their one-two finish in the Sprinters Stakes, setting up a rematch that fans won’t want to miss.
Europe’s Elite Add Depth and Drama
Europe’s finest are equally well represented. France’s Francis-Henri Graffard, fresh off a stellar year with 12 Group 1 victories, sends Calandagan, Goliath, and Sahlan, while the legendary Andre Fabre targets more Hong Kong glory with Junko, Sosie, and Bright Picture. Fabre’s Junko, winner of last year’s Vase, could bid for a rare double.
Ireland’s Aidan O’Brien, already a three-time Vase winner, brings five stars — notably Minnie Hauk, the triple Oaks champion and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe runner-up, and Los Angeles, winner of the Irish Derby. Great Britain’s entries include Dubai Honour, Big Mojo, and Cicero’s Gift, each proven at the top level.
Australian and Middle Eastern Strength
Australia’s hopes rest with Via Sistina, dual Cox Plate heroine, alongside Light Infantry Man, Stefi Magnetica, and Arapaho. Trainer Chris Waller’s contingent also features Buckaroo, Lindermann, and Militarize, reinforcing Australia’s presence across the four races.
Meanwhile, Byzantine Dream and Durezza headline the UAE and Japan’s joint representation in the Vase, while Bahrain and Qatar join the global mix through Calif, Sovereign Spirit, and Silawi.
Anticipation Builds for December
As excitement mounts ahead of the December meeting, Mr Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, hailed the depth and quality of the nominations.
“We are delighted with the support from our international friends,” Harding said. “Hong Kong’s best will once again face the world’s elite, and with HK$130 million in prize money, this year’s LONGINES Hong Kong International Races promises to be an unforgettable occasion.”
The 2025 LONGINES Hong Kong International Races stand as a true global celebration — where champions meet, dreams ignite, and history awaits under the Sha Tin lights.
Read more exclusive racing stories and event previews at RaceBuzz.
