France Galop has announced an exciting new chapter for one of its most celebrated events, the Grand Prix de Paris, through a dynamic partnership with Japanese entertainment powerhouse Cygames. Known globally for its innovative video games and creative content, Cygames is stepping into the world of elite flat racing as the newly appointed Title Partner for the 2025 edition of the Group 1 race.
The prestigious event, now officially named the Cygames Grand Prix de Paris, will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the iconic ParisLongchamp Racecourse. This collaboration signals more than a simple sponsorship—it marks the convergence of two cultural forces aiming to broaden the appeal of horse racing while preserving its deep-rooted traditions of elegance and sporting excellence.
Beyond the race itself, Cygames will also serve as the Official Partner of the Garden Party, a post-race lifestyle celebration that fuses live entertainment, music, and a vibrant social atmosphere. This move brings a fresh, immersive layer to the Grand Prix de Paris experience, aligning with France Galop’s vision of attracting a younger, tech-savvy audience.
Cygames has a rich legacy in entertainment, with globally recognized titles like Granblue Fantasy, Shadowverse, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby, the latter being inspired by real-world thoroughbred racing. Their creative philosophy emphasizes storytelling, innovation, and audience engagement—making them an ideal partner for a racing organization keen on evolving with the times.
For France Galop, this partnership is part of a broader strategy to modernize racing’s image in France and beyond. The collaboration with Cygames serves as a powerful statement of intent—to blend traditional sporting heritage with the bold spirit of modern entertainment, making racing events more accessible and engaging to newer generations.
Cygames’ involvement is especially timely, coinciding with the upcoming global release of the English-language version of Umamusume: Pretty Derby on June 26. By leveraging this synergy between digital gaming and live sport, the partnership is poised to create a unique cultural crossover that resonates with fans across both industries.
As the countdown to July 13 begins, anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of speed, style, and innovation at ParisLongchamp.