A thrilling international showdown is shaping up for August 17, 2025, as Deauville’s iconic racecourse prepares to host the Aga Khan Studs Prix Jacques Le Marois. The anticipation is particularly high with a historic entry from Japan—three top-class racehorses will be competing in this Group 1 event, marking a major milestone for Japanese participation in European flat racing.
The upcoming edition of this mile-long turf race has drawn 42 elite contenders from across the globe, including powerhouse stables from the UK, Ireland, France, and now Japan. With a €1 million prize purse on the line, the stage is set for a spectacular test of speed, stamina, and strategy.
Among the Japanese entrants is the highly respected Jantar Mantar, a four-year-old colt whose resume includes multiple top-level victories, most recently a stunning win in the Yasuda Kinen. Trained by Tomokazu Takano, this horse represents Japan’s hopes of making a serious impression on the European racing circuit.
Ascoli Piceno, another Japanese star, comes in with a strong international pedigree. A seasoned traveler, this four-year-old filly has conquered races in Saudi Arabia and recently claimed victory in Japan’s prestigious Victoria Mile. With renowned jockey Christophe Lemaire guiding her past performances, she’s expected to bring serious competition.
The third Japanese entrant, Go to First, may not have the same glittering résumé, but his presence adds an unpredictable twist. His entry surprised many in the racing community, making him an underdog to watch. The colt might just pull off something extraordinary on French turf.
This year’s race features some of Europe’s finest three-year-olds, including Classic winners from Newmarket, Ireland, and France. Among the contenders are runners from major operations like Godolphin and Juddmonte, along with a strong contingent from Aidan O’Brien, who has entered a formidable team of ten.
The Deauville Barrière Meeting, where this event takes place, is known for attracting world-class talent, and this year is no exception. The Prix Jacques Le Marois has long held a reputation as one of the premier mile races in the world. Its legacy includes past winners like Goldikova, Dubawi, and Kingman, making a win here a defining achievement in any racehorse’s career.
For the first time, Aga Khan Studs will not only sponsor this race but also the entire day’s program at Deauville, signaling a significant boost to the event’s prestige. Their long-standing success and commitment to the sport bring even more weight to this already prestigious racing day.
As the racing world turns its eyes to Deauville, the excitement continues to build. With elite horses from both hemispheres set to clash, the 2025 Prix Jacques Le Marois promises to be a race to remember.