Joao Moreira is not one to offer empty praise, and his verdict on June Take carries weight ahead of Sunday’s HK$30 million Group 1 FWD QEII Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin Racecourse . Back in Hong Kong on a short-term licence, the four-time champion jockey believes the Japanese contender has the credentials to mix it with some of the world’s best.
Moreira, whose return has added further intrigue to FWD Champions Day, will take the reins on June Take in what will be his first Group 1 rides since resuming in the city. The partnership comes off the back of the horse’s victory in the Group 2 Kyoto Kinen, and the Brazilian rider is convinced the gelding belongs at the highest level.
“I have no doubt he could be a player,” Moreira said. “I think he’s going to be right there with them. Could he be the winner? We’ll have to see how the race plays out.
“He’s going to have to come to a different level to put himself ahead of the top horses. However, I’m taking the reins and I’m riding him with all of the faith.”
The assignment, however, has not been entirely straightforward. Moreira partnered June Take in multiple pieces of trackwork during the week, including a gallop that briefly raised concern when the horse was examined by on-course veterinarians. He was subsequently cleared to run, and the rider is satisfied the episode was more about temperament than physical condition.
“He seems to need company,” Moreira explained. “He found himself in a new environment and he was hesitating about it. Once he pulled up, I thought there was an issue with him but there wasn’t.
“He was fine, he definitely had some problem with regards to being by himself. He pulled up quicker than I thought.”
Sunday’s contest shapes as one of the strongest editions in recent memory. Established star Romantic Warrior headlines the field, while Japan’s Masquerade Ball, France’s Sosie and Royal Champion add further depth to an already formidable line-up. It is precisely that level of opposition that makes Moreira’s confidence in June Take noteworthy.
While Masquerade Ball, winner of the Tenno Sho Autumn, arrives as Japan’s leading hope, Moreira insists his mount deserves equal respect.
“Usually, a Group 2 winner in Japan, you’ve got to be a very nice horse to do that,” he said. “It means he deserves some respect. It’s a bloody strong race as there are some of the best horses in the world in the field.
“When I got offered the ride, I had no second thoughts. I don’t think there was going to be a better ride for me and if anything happens to the favourites, he could be the one coming up.”
The FWD QEII Cup 2026 promises a compelling clash of international talent, with June Take emerging as a live contender capable of stepping beyond his current rating. With Moreira’s experience and composure in the saddle, the race may yet reveal another layer to the Japanese runner’s ability.
FWD Champions Day will take place at Sha Tin on Sunday, 26 April.
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