'I felt an enormous weight on my shoulders' - relief for Francis Graffard as Calandagan defies the odds to win the Japan Cup

Calandagan Makes History in Japan Cup Triumph

Calandagan concluded a remarkable racing season with victory in the Japan Cup on Sunday, earning nearly 5 million pounds and securing a historic win for trainer Francis Graffard and owner the Aga Khan. The triumph marked not only a professional high point but also a moment of immense relief for Graffard, who admitted feeling intense pressure leading up to the race.

"I felt an enormous weight on my shoulders," Graffard said after the win. "This is a horse that gives everything, and today he proved just how special he is."

A Season of Excellence

Throughout the season, Calandagan displayed consistent form, winning major races across Europe before heading to Tokyo. His success in Japan added an international dimension to his campaign and placed him among the elite group of horses to achieve global victories under various conditions.

Defying the Odds

Facing tough competition from international contenders, Calandagan’s victory shocked many observers, particularly given the strength of local Japanese runners traditionally dominating the Tokyo racecourse. The performance underscored both the horse’s adaptability and Graffard’s tactical planning.

Team Effort and Legacy

Graffard praised his team and acknowledged the extraordinary work behind the scenes. The victory is also a landmark for the Aga Khan’s racing operation, extending a legacy of global success.

"This win belongs to everyone involved—the staff, the jockey, the owner," Graffard noted. "It’s a collective triumph."

Financial and Symbolic Reward

Calandagan’s Japan Cup win brought in almost 5 million pounds in prize money, crowning a year of remarkable achievements. His success reinforced the strength of European-trained horses on the international stage and concluded the season with a perfect statement of endurance and class.

Author’s summary: Calandagan’s Japan Cup victory capped a dominant season, easing Francis Graffard’s pressure while affirming the Aga Khan team’s global racing excellence.

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Racing Post Racing Post — 2025-11-30

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