Japanese-bred Forever Young, from an $8,000 Kentucky-bred mare, was the 2025 Eclipse Award winning Older Horse.
Yoshito Yahagi
The four-year-old colt, a close third to rivals Sierra Leone and Fierceness in the 2024 Classic, was primed for his big win this year.
Japan's superstar colt was passed by Hong Kong hero Romantic Warrior turning for home but then rallied to grab the win.
The well-travelled 6-year-old led all the way through 1 1/8 miles to win the richest race in the world over the American star.
The victory marked the Deep Impact colt's fifth G1 score and final career race, shaking off Shahryar and Authority in the stretch.
