Kiwi Apprentice Now Translates for World's Richest Racehorse

When Yuto Kumagai's work visa was expiring in New Zealand, he never imagined his next job would take him on a world tour with a champion racehorse worth millions.

The former Wexford Stables apprentice jockey returned to Japan earlier this year to work as a translator for overseas jockeys. His unique combination of English fluency and riding skills caught the attention of Yoshito Yahagi, one of Japan's leading trainers.

Now Kumagai works with Forever Young, the superstar horse who has won the last two editions of the $20 million Saudi Cup, the world's richest horse race. He also rides work for other top horses in the stable including American Stage and Group One performer Shin Emperor.

His new career has taken him from Saudi Arabia to Dubai, then Kentucky for the famous Derby, South Korea, and now the United States. Last Friday, Forever Young won the Grade 1 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park and is preparing to defend his title at next month's Breeders' Cup Classic.

"Not many people can have this opportunity, and I am honored to be here with this great horse," Kumagai said. "I never thought I could get this chance."

Kumagai's racing journey started in New Zealand after seeing Australian horse racing at age 19. He couldn't get an Australian visa, so he followed in friend Taiki Yanagida's footsteps to New Zealand, where he rode 11 winners over three seasons.

Why This Inspires

Kumagai's story shows how careers can take unexpected turns that lead to amazing opportunities. After struggling with motivation following his friend Taiki's tragic death in a 2022 race fall, he stopped race riding and became a track rider for trainer Andrew Forsman in Cambridge.

What seemed like a career setback actually opened a new door. His translator role was supposed to be a temporary position, but his riding skills made him invaluable to one of racing's top operations.

He's been particularly impressed by the theatre of American racing and continues to pinch himself about attending world-renowned race meetings. The Breeders' Cup at Keeneland in November will be his next stop on an adventure that started in a small New Zealand racing stable.

Sometimes the path forward isn't always straight, and Kumagai's journey from Kiwi apprentice to international racing ambassador proves that versatility and perseverance can lead to dreams you didn't even know you had.